11 year old spruce with first time browning needles
1 Response
The photos lack the detail needed to diagnose the cause of the dieback with any certainty. However, this response to a similar question may be instructive:
https://ask.extension.org/questions/264172
If you conclude that cytospora is present, go here for more information:
http://cues.cfans.umn.edu/old/dx/pk/canker.htm
http://extension.illinois.edu/focus/index.cfm?problem=cytospora-canker-of-spruce
If you conclude that cytospora is not present, using this diagnostic tool may help you identify the problem:
http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/assistance/backyard/treecare/forest_health/whitesprucediagnosis.pdf
If you are still uncertain, ask a certified arborist or forester to assess the tree's health onsite and recommend a course of action.