Cedar dead branches - Ask Extension
This tree has had some small sections of dead needles in the past, but this year it looks rather severe.
Thoughts on what the issue could be?
I've b...
Knowledgebase
Cedar dead branches #926523
Asked March 22, 2026, 7:06 PM EDT
This tree has had some small sections of dead needles in the past, but this year it looks rather severe.
Thoughts on what the issue could be?
I've begun watering with a soaker hose, as it seems it could be water related.
Marion County Oregon
Expert Response
Dear Scott,
Thank you for contacting us about your cedar tree. These trees typically show annual dieback of some leaves, however, this generally appears in the middle of the tree nearer to the trunk.
The pattern of browning on your tree may indicate root problems which may include extended periods of drought. This may have occurred last summer.
First, I suggest you move the soaker hose closer to the drip-line of the tree since that is where most of the feeder roots are. Trees require a minimum of 5 gallons of water per week per inch of caliper (on the trunk about 4 feet from the soil.) This would amount to an inch of water across the entire root zone. The soil should feel damp at a depth of 2-inches, (again, across the entire root zone.) The water requirement is year-round including periods with no rain in the winter.
Beyond that, you might check whether the dry limbs are dead. Carefully scratch the bark with the edge of a knife. If there is any green showing just below the bark, the limb is still alive. If it is brown all the way through, the limb is dead and should be removed.
I recommend that you consult with a certified arborist who can assess the health of the tree. They may be able to do this with minimal or no cost. This website can assist you in locating a qualified arborist:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
I hope this information helps. Please write again any time you have questions.
Thank you for contacting us about your cedar tree. These trees typically show annual dieback of some leaves, however, this generally appears in the middle of the tree nearer to the trunk.
The pattern of browning on your tree may indicate root problems which may include extended periods of drought. This may have occurred last summer.
First, I suggest you move the soaker hose closer to the drip-line of the tree since that is where most of the feeder roots are. Trees require a minimum of 5 gallons of water per week per inch of caliper (on the trunk about 4 feet from the soil.) This would amount to an inch of water across the entire root zone. The soil should feel damp at a depth of 2-inches, (again, across the entire root zone.) The water requirement is year-round including periods with no rain in the winter.
Beyond that, you might check whether the dry limbs are dead. Carefully scratch the bark with the edge of a knife. If there is any green showing just below the bark, the limb is still alive. If it is brown all the way through, the limb is dead and should be removed.
I recommend that you consult with a certified arborist who can assess the health of the tree. They may be able to do this with minimal or no cost. This website can assist you in locating a qualified arborist:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
I hope this information helps. Please write again any time you have questions.
