2007 Year in Review

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Evergreen Needles Turn Yellow

Don't be alarmed if you notice the interior needles of evergreens turning yellow. Pine, spruce and arborvitae are referred to as "evergreens" because of their habit of retaining needles throughout the winter, but needles don't last forever. Depending on the species, needles remain on the plant for several years until they reach maturity.

Once sufficient new growth has taken place at tips of branches, the older needles toward the center will turn yellow and drop off, having served their purpose of photosynthesis. Needles on white pine typically drop at the end of their second season. Red pine needles persist until the fourth or fifth season.

Weather conditions, age of the plant and genetics all contribute to when needles drop. White pines are noted for yellowing every two or three years in the fall and dropping needles. During dry seasons, needle drop may be more noticeable.

If you notice needles turning yellow on evergreens, take a closer look. If the yellowing is occurring on the interior or inside of the plant AND the current season's growth—at the tips of the branches—is healthy and normal, don't become alarmed. The tree should be okay.

Another clue is to check the buds at the end of the branches. If they are plump, slightly green and covered with whitish to greenish scales, the tree should be okay. If new growth is weak or turning brown, root injury or canker disease may be involved. This summer's growing conditions placed trees under lots of stress resulting in browning of needles.

There's no need to rake needles that fall. They serve as a mulch to keep weeds down if the soil is moist.

Finally, with dry conditions throughout the state, and most places experiencing less rainfall than normal, the best thing you can do for your evergreens is provide a deep soaking during November to help them survive the winter. Remember, even though the plants appear dormant, they will lose water through their needles during the winter.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
November 29, 2007

 

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