TREE & LAWN CARE BLOG
Why Is My Evergreen Turning Brown?
Evergreen trees have always been a popular species with their habit of maintaining their color in your yard throughout winter. When you see your evergreen turning brown, it can be a cause for worry.
There are a number of reasons why your evergreen might be browning including:
Summer drought - Temperature and environmental factors always play a big role in the health of your trees as well as how they survive less than ideal conditions. Drought is the number one cause for browning evergreens in Georgia.
Pests and diseases - Pests and disease bring about a bigger cause for concern, as these will involve getting help from a tree care expert. Bark beetles are the most common pests found munching away on your evergreens. Diseases such as cytospora canker disease have also been found in the area. It is important to consult with a local tree care professional if you think your tree is infected with pests or diseases.
Transplant shock - Transplant shock can affect all species of plants and trees and is usually caused by damaged roots. Most of the time, they will recover from transplant shock, but it is important to note that this can be a very long and slow process. We recommend fertilization to provide extra nutrients your tree might need to repair itself.
Can I save my browning evergreen tree?
Depending on the cause of the damage, there are a number of things you can do to save your browning evergreen tree before its too late. We always recommend having a tree care expert come out to your property to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. However, there are some things you can do in the meantime to encourage repair.
Going into dormant season (winter), is the best time of the year to get your trees on an annual pruning plan. Trimming your trees regularly provides a large number of benefits and is the standard practice in prevention.
Water
If the temperatures in your area have been on the high side with little to no rain, your trees could be browning from drought. Providing your evergreen with water regularly should keep it from browning.
We recommend fertilization during spring, so now is the perfect time to secure your spot on the list! Fertilization replenishes the soil for trees of all types and ages.
If you would like further information or to speak with a tree care expert regarding your trees click the link below to be connected now!
CALL AN ARBORIST.
Crepe Myrtle Bark Scale
A new scale pest that lingers on crepe myrtle trees has been found in the southeastern US threatening their appearance and life span. This pest is spreading fast, leaving behind extensive honeydew deposits and black sooty mold.
Symptoms of crape myrtle bark scale:
Black sooty mold
Reduced foliage growth
Honeydew secretions
White/gray felt-like substances on trunk or branches
How do I get rid of crape myrtle bark scale?
Before treating your crape myrtle diseases, its important to have an examination by a certified arborist to confirm what exactly (if anything) is needed. Our technicians will apply a pesticide in the spring right as the new growth develops on the tree to attain the best results.
Can I prevent crape myrtle bark scale?
Unfortunately there is currently no preventative measure to avoid this particular scale. However, keeping your trees regularly maintained and in good health can naturally deter them. Pests and diseases are most likely to invade a sick/unhealthy tree.
Click the link below to be connected with an ISA certified arborist now!
CONNECT ME WITH AN ARBORIST
Do I Have A White Pine Weevil Infestation?
The eastern white pine tree is characterized by its blue-green needles. It grows best in zones 3-8 and is a valuable hardy tree. Easy to grow and maintain, the eastern white pine is known for its adaptability to grow in many different conditions. However, it is susceptible to the white pine weevil.
What is the white pine weevil?
The white pine weevil is considered one of the most destructive tree pests in the U.S. It primarily feeds on the white pine but has been known to favor a few other species such as the spruce and fir. This insect is extremely small in size, averaging at 7mm in its adult cycle. They tend to gather in the leaf debris at the base of your trees in winter, to emerge in spring and attack its hosts. The damage from a white pine weevil is extensive and can escalate extremely fast. If you suspect white pine weevils on your trees, it’s important to get a tree care estimate by a certified arborist immediately.
What are the signs of white pine weevil?
Presence of adult weevils on bark
Pin sized holes
Spongy or softened areas under the bark
Wilting or drooping
How do I get rid of the white pine weevil?
Unfortunately we cannot recommend any at home treatment for this pest, as it is so destructive and must be maintained properly. An application of insecticide should be applied by a tree care specialist between March and April when drops of resin are first detected. Depending on the extent of the damage, the remaining infected portions of branches should be removed and burned to prevent further outbreak.
We recommend a regular tree health inspection by an ISA certified arborist to prevent pests and decay from taking over. Click the link below to set up a free estimate with one of our arborists and start your tree pest prevention plan today!