Spruce tree issue - Ask Extension
I have two spruce trees planted near each other. They are both near our hayfield. One of them is quite brown in the interior part of the branches. We ...
Knowledgebase
Spruce tree issue #941071
Asked July 30, 2026, 4:18 PM EDT
I have two spruce trees planted near each other. They are both near our hayfield. One of them is quite brown in the interior part of the branches. We have watered it well throughout the summer and fertilized also. The second tree looks healthier but is showing signs of the same problem.
Is there anything else we could check to see what is causing this problem?
It does have new growth. I'm attaching pictures.
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hello,
The inner canopy of spruce are often without needles because it's too shady and the plant sheds the needles because photosynthesis is unproductive.
Spruce also have a high water use need. So any water (in addition to what you're providing) will be beneficial. Also consider removing the grass from below the tree because it's competing with the tree for resources. If you can do a large mulch ring (extending at least the width of the base of the tree), that will also help.
You can go in and prune/remove any dead branches or those devoid of needles, but be careful not to prune off any living tissue.
A potentially better option for this location would be juniper, which is more tolerant of drought.
The inner canopy of spruce are often without needles because it's too shady and the plant sheds the needles because photosynthesis is unproductive.
Spruce also have a high water use need. So any water (in addition to what you're providing) will be beneficial. Also consider removing the grass from below the tree because it's competing with the tree for resources. If you can do a large mulch ring (extending at least the width of the base of the tree), that will also help.
You can go in and prune/remove any dead branches or those devoid of needles, but be careful not to prune off any living tissue.
A potentially better option for this location would be juniper, which is more tolerant of drought.
