Hemlock Tree Browning - Ask Extension
I transplanted hemlock seedlings two years ago. They seemed to have done well but this spring they have significant brown or rust colored needle sect...
Knowledgebase
Hemlock Tree Browning #929945
Asked April 28, 2026, 5:45 PM EDT
I transplanted hemlock seedlings two years ago. They seemed to have done well but this spring they have significant brown or rust colored needle sections. I realize in driving along Hope highway and Turnagain pass there is quite a bit of browning in some areas. Is it something I can treat or trim?
Anchorage County Alaska
Expert Response
This looks like winterburn. It isn't anything that you can treat, but you will want to prune back the dead branches. Wait until the trees start to put out new needles so you know what is truly dead. Some of the smaller trees that looked like the tops were affected might be a little misshaped if the tops die. It was a tough winter with the cold and wind and lots of needle trees are seeing this winterburn.
