Can You Save An Arborvitae That Is Turning Brown

Yes, you can save an arborvitae that is turning brown in many cases.

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The key is catching the problem early and identifying the cause behind the browning.

If you’ve noticed your arborvitae turning brown, don’t panic just yet because many issues are reversible with the right care.

In this post, we’ll explore why arborvitae turn brown, when you can save an arborvitae that is turning brown, and what steps to take.

Let’s jump right into saving your evergreen shrubs.

Why Arborvitae Turning Brown Happens

Before you can save an arborvitae that is turning brown, you need to understand why it’s happening in the first place.
 
Several common factors cause arborvitae to lose their lush green color.
 
Here are the main reasons your arborvitae is turning brown:
 

1. Drought Stress

One of the most frequent reasons for arborvitae turning brown is lack of water.
 
These evergreens have shallow root systems that dry out quickly during hot, dry spells.
 
If the soil stays parched for too long, the foliage will start to brown from the inside out.
 
You can save an arborvitae that is turning brown due to drought by watering deeply and consistently.
 

2. Winter Burn

Cold winter winds and bright sun can dry out the leaves when the ground is frozen.
 
This phenomenon called winter burn often shows up as browning on the side facing the wind or sun.
 
In spring, you might notice your arborvitae turning brown on one side or at the tips.
 
Saving arborvitae turning brown from winter burn is possible once new growth emerges.
 

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3. Pest Infestations

Tiny pests like spider mites, bagworms, and scale insects can suck the life out of your arborvitae.
 
Signs include webbing, tiny bags hanging from branches, or sticky residue on the needles.
 
If pests are causing your arborvitae to turn brown, you can still save an arborvitae that is turning brown with proper treatment.
 

4. Fungal Diseases

Fungi such as Phytophthora root rot or Kabatina tip blight attack stressed arborvitae.
 
Yellowing or browning typically starts at the base or tips and spreads upward.
 
Catching a fungal infection early gives you the best chance to save an arborvitae that is turning brown from disease.
 

5. Dog Urine or Salt Damage

If your arborvitae is near a walkway or where pets roam, urine or road salt can cause browning.
 
The brown spots appear at the bottom of the shrub and may look like chemical burns.
 
You can save an arborvitae that is turning brown from salt by flushing the soil with plenty of water.
 

How to Save an Arborvitae That Is Turning Brown

Now that you know the causes, let’s talk about the practical steps to save an arborvitae that is turning brown.
 
Act quickly and follow these methods based on the specific problem your tree is facing.
 

1. Water Deeply During Dry Periods

For drought-related browning, give your arborvitae a long, slow soak once or twice a week.
 
Focus the water on the root zone about 12 inches deep rather than light sprinkling.
 
Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and keeps roots cool.
 
Within a few weeks, you should see new green shoots replacing the brown areas.
 

2. Protect from Winter Burn

To save an arborvitae that is turning brown from winter burn, wrap the shrub with burlap before winter.
 
You can also spray an anti-desiccant on the foliage in late fall to reduce moisture loss.
 
In spring, prune away any completely dead branches and wait for new growth.
 
The shrub will often bounce back on its own if the roots are healthy.
 

3. Treat Pests Promptly

If you see signs of spider mites, bagworms, or scale, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
 
For bagworms, handpick the bags in fall or early spring before they hatch.
 
Repeat treatments may be necessary to fully eliminate the infestation.
 
A pest-free arborvitae will stop turning brown and start recovering.
 

4. Manage Fungal Diseases

For fungal issues, prune away the brown, infected branches and improve air circulation.
 
Avoid overhead watering so the foliage stays dry.
 
Apply a fungicide labeled for arborvitae diseases if the problem is severe.
 
Good drainage is critical, so make sure the soil isn’t waterlogged.
 

5. Flush Out Salt and Dog Urine

If salt or urine is the culprit, water the soil deeply several times to dilute the buildup.
 
Consider installing a barrier or redirecting pets away from the shrub.
 
You can also apply gypsum to help neutralize salt in the soil.
 
After flushing, the arborvitae that is turning brown may recover if the damage isn’t too extensive.
 

Preventing Arborvitae From Turning Brown in the Future

The best way to save an arborvitae that is turning brown is to prevent the browning before it starts.
 
A little proactive care goes a long way to keep your evergreens healthy year-round.
 

1. Choose the Right Location

Plant arborvitae in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
 
Avoid low spots where water pools or areas exposed to harsh winter winds.
 
Giving them enough space to grow also reduces stress and disease.
 

2. Water Consistently

Provide about one inch of water per week during the growing season.
 
Deep watering encourages roots to grow deep and become more drought-tolerant.
 
During prolonged dry spells, don’t let the soil dry out completely.
 

3. Mulch and Fertilize

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch like wood chips around the base.
 
Mulch keeps the soil moist, regulates temperature, and suppresses weeds.
 
Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer designed for evergreens.
 

4. Inspect Regularly

Check your arborvitae for early signs of pests, disease, or discoloration.
 
Catching a problem when it’s small makes it much easier to save an arborvitae that is turning brown.
 
Trim away any dead or damaged branches promptly.
 

So, Can You Save an Arborvitae That Is Turning Brown?

Yes, you can save an arborvitae that is turning brown if you act quickly and address the root cause.

Whether it’s drought, winter burn, pests, disease, or salt damage, most arborvitae will recover with the right care.

And this Miracle-Gro All Purpose Fertilizer on Amazon can be a practical addition for you, so click the link to check it out.

The key is identifying what’s making your arborvitae turn brown and taking immediate corrective steps.

In many cases, an arborvitae that is turning brown will grow new green foliage once the stressor is removed.

Hope this guide gives you the confidence to revive your shrubs and keep them vibrant for years to come.