What’s Wrong with My Spruce Tree?

Pest infestations and disease are two of the biggest problems spruce trees face. In recent years, certain types of pests have increased, which has resulted in the steady decline of spruce trees. The prevalence of canker diseases is plaguing spruce trees, too. These factors combined have created the perfect storm for the destruction of spruces. If you’re wondering what is wrong with your spruce tree, check out our latest guide to learn more about what may be wrong and how you can care for your spruce tree.

What’s Wrong with My Spruce Tree?

Common Pests that Infest Spruce Trees

Spruce trees are prone to pest infestations. Some of the most common types of pests that target these trees include the following:

Spruce Scale

A small, white insect, Spruce Scale can inhabit and feed on both old and new growth. These pests multiply rapidly and in no time, they can infest an entire spruce tree. As Spruce Scale feeds, they suck the nutrients out of the tree, and if they aren’t eradicated, the tree can become so ravaged that it will perish.

Spruce Spider Mite

Spruce Spider Mites are a common problem for spruce trees. All it takes is one female to take up residence on a needle or branch and the entire tree can become destroyed. The female will lay eggs, those eggs will hatch, and as they do, more eggs will be laid and hatched, and the process continues.

As Spruce Spider Mites suck the life out of the tree, the needles will first become discolored and then they’ll drop. Over time, the limbs can drop and eventually, the entire tree can become so weakened that it will perish.

Common Diseases that Impact Spruce Trees

Spruce trees are also prone to several types of diseases. The following are among the most common diseases of spruces:

Canker Diseases

The result of a fungus that infects the trunk or branches, canker diseases are common among spruce trees. In recent years, the prevalence of canker diseases has increased. The infection inhibits the branches from successfully transporting water and vital nutrients, and eventually, the branches will die off.

Cytospora Canker is the most common type of canker disease among spruce trees. It’s highly aggressive and typically, the branches of infected trees die from the bottom up.

Needlecasts

As the name suggests, needlecasts is a disease that causes a spruce tree to shed its infected needles. There are two types of needlecasts that commonly affect spruce trees: Stigmina and Rhizosphaera. As the disease spreads through the infected tree, the needless will die.

Typically, the impact of the disease can be seen within a year after the tree has become infected. Over time, a spruce tree that is infected with needlecasts won’t look as full as it used to, as the needles will die from the inside out. The disease weakens the tree as it progresses, and ultimately, it can perish if not properly taken care of.

Caring for Spruce Trees

As you can see, spruce trees can be impacted by several pests and diseases. If you’re experiencing problems with your spruce trees and you aren’t sure of the cause or how to resolve it, contact a local arborist. A reputable tree care professional near you will be able to diagnose the problem and can implement remedies to correct it.

Additional Information: Browning needles in spruce trees

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