Why Are My Arborvitae Turning Brown: Causes and Solutions
Why Are My Arborvitae Turning Brown?
Arborvitae trees can turn brown during the cold weather months due to a condition known as winter burn.
Winter burn can be caused by a combination of factors, including wind, sun, freezing temperatures, and lack of water.
To prevent winter burn, it is important to select a sheltered location for the trees, water them in late fall and during thaws, mulch over the root zone, and protect them with tree wrap.
Wrapping the arborvitae in burlap is the most effective prevention method.
It is also advisable to avoid planting arborvitae on the south side of a wall or in high wind areas.
Adjusting watering in September to promote hardening off and applying garden mulch to conserve moisture can further help prevent winter burn.
Pruning should be avoided until spring or summer to assess the condition of the branches.
Once arborvitae foliage turns brown due to winter burn, it cannot be reversed or repaired.
Therefore, the focus should be on preventing future winter damage.
If green growth appears on a branch that was damaged, prune back to that point.
However, if the branch remains brown, it should be pruned off entirely.
Snow damage may also require pruning, depending on the severity of winters in the region.
Key Points:
- Arborvitae trees can turn brown in cold weather due to winter burn caused by wind, sun, freezing temperatures, and lack of water.
- To prevent winter burn, select a sheltered location, water in late fall and during thaws, mulch over the root zone, and protect with tree wrap.
- Burlap wrapping is the most effective prevention method, and avoid planting in high wind areas or on the south side of walls.
- Adjust watering in September and apply garden mulch to help prevent winter burn.
- Pruning should be avoided until spring or summer to assess branch condition.
- Once foliage turns brown due to winter burn, it cannot be reversed or repaired, so focus on preventing future damage.
Did You Know?
1. Arborvitae, also known as the “tree of life,” has been used by Indigenous peoples for centuries due to its medicinal properties, including treating coughs and skin conditions.
2. The browning of arborvitae leaves can be caused by various factors, one of which is sunscald. This occurs when the winter sun reflects off snow or ice and damages the foliage.
3. Certain pests, such as spider mites, can cause arborvitae leaves to turn brown. These tiny arachnids suck the sap from the leaves, causing discoloration and potential damage to the tree.
4. Overwatering can lead to arborvitae leaves turning brown. These trees prefer well-drained soil, and excessive moisture can result in root rot or suffocation, negatively affecting the health of the tree.
5. Arborvitae turning brown can also be a sign of certain diseases, such as cedar-apple rust. This fungal disease, which affects both arborvitae and nearby apple trees, can cause yellow or brown spots on the leaves, leading to eventual browning and defoliation.
Causes Of Arborvitae Turning Brown In Cold Weather
During the cold winter months, arborvitae trees often experience browning of their foliage. This phenomenon, known as winter burn, is primarily caused by a combination of factors including wind, sun exposure, freezing temperatures, and lack of water.
Strong winter winds can lead to desiccation, or excessive drying out, of the foliage. When arborvitae trees are exposed to prolonged periods of wind, the moisture content in their leaves can evaporate rapidly, causing them to turn brown. Similarly, the harsh winter sun can also contribute to winter burn by causing the foliage to lose moisture through a process called transpiration.
Freezing temperatures can further exacerbate the problem. Cold weather can damage the cell structure of the leaves, rendering them unable to retain moisture efficiently. Additionally, the lack of water during the winter months can further stress the arborvitae trees, making them more susceptible to winter burn.
- Winter burn in arborvitae trees is primarily caused by a combination of factors including wind, sun exposure, freezing temperatures, and lack of water.
- Strong winter winds can lead to desiccation of the foliage, resulting in browning.
- Harsh winter sun can cause moisture loss through transpiration, contributing to winter burn.
- Freezing temperatures can damage the leaves’ cell structure, affecting their ability to retain moisture efficiently.
- Lack of water during the winter months can further stress the trees, making them more susceptible to winter burn.
Winter burn can be a serious issue for arborvitae trees, and understanding the factors that contribute to it is key to prevention and mitigation.
Prevention Methods For Winter Burn
Preventing winter burn in arborvitae trees requires implementing a series of measures aimed at protecting them from the harsh winter conditions. One effective method is selecting a sheltered location for planting. By choosing an area that is shielded from strong winds and receives partial shade during winter, the arborvitae trees can be provided with some protection.
Proper watering also plays a crucial role in preventing winter burn. It is important to ensure that the trees have adequate moisture before the ground freezes. Watering in late fall and during thaws can help maintain moisture levels in the soil. Additionally, applying mulch over the root zone can help conserve moisture and insulate the roots.
Among the various prevention methods, wrapping arborvitae in burlap is considered to be the best option. Burlap acts as a barrier against wind and helps prevent the loss of moisture from the foliage. It provides an extra layer of protection, shielding the trees from the damaging effects of winter burn.
The Best Prevention Method: Wrapping In Burlap
When it comes to protecting arborvitae trees from winter burn, wrapping them in burlap is considered the optimal solution. The process involves covering the tree with burlap, which acts as a windbreak, shielding the foliage from drying winds.
To wrap an arborvitae tree in burlap, start by installing stakes around the tree to create a framework. Carefully drape the burlap over the stakes, ensuring that it completely envelops the tree. Secure the edges of the burlap using rope or twine, making sure it is taut and forms a protective barrier around the tree.
This method helps to create a microclimate around the arborvitae, trapping moisture and reducing the effects of wind and extreme temperatures. The burlap allows the tree to breathe and receive light while providing crucial protection from winter burn.
Avoiding Placement Mistakes For Arborvitae
To minimize the risk of arborvitae turning brown during the winter months, it is essential to avoid common placement mistakes. One key consideration is to avoid planting arborvitae on the south side of a wall or in high wind areas. These locations expose the trees to intense sun and strong winds, which can rapidly dehydrate the foliage and lead to winter burn.
Another crucial aspect is adjusting watering practices in September. By reducing the frequency of watering, the tree can naturally prepare for the winter season and undergo a process called hardening off. This hardening off period helps the tree become more resilient to freezing temperatures and reduces the chance of winter burn.
Applying garden mulch around the base of the arborvitae can also help conserve moisture by preventing the soil from drying out. The mulch acts as a protective layer, retaining moisture and providing insulation to the roots.
- Avoid planting arborvitae on the south side of a wall or in high wind areas
- Adjust watering practices in September to help the tree harden off
- Apply garden mulch around the base of the arborvitae to conserve moisture
Pruning And Dealing With Winter Damage
When dealing with winter damage, it is important to assess the condition of the arborvitae tree before considering any pruning. Pruning should generally be avoided until spring or summer to determine the extent of the damage. Brown foliage resulting from winter burn cannot be reversed or repaired, so it is crucial to focus on preventing future winter damage.
If green growth appears on a branch damaged by winter burn, it is advisable to prune back to that point. This helps to remove any dead or damaged portions while preserving the healthy parts of the branch. However, if the branch remains brown, it should be pruned off entirely to allow new growth to develop.
Snow damage may also occur in regions with severe winters. In such cases, pruning should be considered based on the severity of the damage. It is important to consult with a professional arborist to determine the appropriate course of action.
Understanding the causes of arborvitae turning brown during the cold weather months is essential to effectively prevent winter burn.
Implementing prevention methods such as:
- Selecting a sheltered location
- Proper watering
- Wrapping in burlap
provides the best defense against winter burn. Avoiding placement mistakes and adjusting watering practices in September can further enhance the resilience of arborvitae trees. Pruning should be approached cautiously, focusing on removing damaged sections while promoting healthy growth. By implementing these strategies, homeowners can ensure the optimal health and vibrant green foliage of their arborvitae trees throughout the year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can arborvitae recover from browning?
Although arborvitae can occasionally recover from browning, it largely depends on the severity of the damage and individual plant resilience. Regrettably, there are limited methods to stimulate their recovery, so patience becomes crucial. If the majority of the arborvitae has succumbed to browning, it is unlikely to recover and may necessitate replacement with new plants.
What do overwatered arborvitae look like?
Arborvitae that have been overwatered exhibit distinct signs of distress. The foliage of overwatered arborvitae tends to turn yellow, indicating that the roots have become waterlogged. This is because arborvitae is intolerant of wet soils and requires well-draining conditions. When the roots remain saturated for an extended period, they can begin to rot, leading to yellowing foliage as a clear indication of overwatering.
How do I trim the brown off my arborvitae?
To trim the brown off your arborvitae, begin by identifying the diseased or brown branches. Once located, carefully trim a section of the dead branch, gradually working your way towards green growth. It is important to remember to prune out the brown or diseased parts promptly to maintain the health of your arborvitae tree.
What is the best fertilizer for arborvitae?
To ensure the healthy growth of arborvitae, it is recommended to fertilize them during the early spring. One optimal option is to follow the soil test recommendations or make use of a high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as a 20-15-15 or a 10-5-5 blend. For every 100 square feet of root area, applying one pound of fertilizer will adequately nourish the arborvitae plants.