How To Save Brown Arborvitae Trees

You can save brown arborvitae trees by first figuring out what’s causing the discoloration.
 
Brown arborvitae trees can often bounce back with the right care and attention.
 
If you’ve noticed your brown arborvitae trees turning brown, don’t panic just yet.
 
Saving brown arborvitae trees requires a bit of detective work and some TLC.
 
In this post, we’ll cover how to save brown arborvitae trees step by step.
 
Let’s dig into the details so you can restore your trees to their vibrant green glory.
 

How to Save Brown Arborvitae Trees: Identify the Cause First

The first step in how to save brown arborvitae trees is figuring out why they turned brown.
 
Brown arborvitae trees can result from several issues like watering problems or pests.
 
Before you take any action, check the tree’s environment and overall health.
 
Here are common causes linked to brown arborvitae trees that you need to rule out.
 

1. Water Stress Is a Top Cause of Brown Arborvitae Trees

Both overwatering and underwatering can turn arborvitae trees brown.
 
When roots are waterlogged, they can’t take up oxygen, leading to browning.
 
On the flip side, drought stress makes the foliage dry out and turn crispy.
 
Check the soil moisture about two inches deep near the root zone.
 
If it’s bone dry, your tree needs a deep soak right away.
 
If it’s soggy, improve drainage or reduce your watering frequency.
 
Proper watering is key to saving brown arborvitae trees from water stress.
 

2. Winter Burn Can Cause Brown Arborvitae Trees

Winter burn happens when cold winds and sun dry out the foliage.
 
Arborvitae trees lose moisture through their leaves even when the ground is frozen.
 
This dehydration turns the tips and outer edges of the tree brown.
 
Winter-burned brown arborvitae trees often recover in spring with new growth.
 
You can help by wrapping trees in burlap or applying an anti-desiccant spray.
 
Protecting your trees before winter is a solid way to save brown arborvitae trees.
 

3. Pests and Diseases Attack Brown Arborvitae Trees

Bagworms, spider mites, and fungal diseases can cause arborvitae to turn brown.
 
Check the branches and needles for webbing, tiny insects, or discolored spots.
 
If you spot pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil early in the season.
 
Prune out any dead or infected branches to stop the problem from spreading.
 
Treating pests quickly is essential when saving brown arborvitae trees from damage.
 

Common Reasons Why Brown Arborvitae Trees Turn Brown

Understanding why brown arborvitae trees brown out helps you prevent future issues.
 
Beyond watering and pests, other factors can make saving brown arborvitae trees tricky.
 
Let’s look at a few more culprits that affect brown arborvitae trees.
 

1. Poor Planting Location Hurts Brown Arborvitae Trees

If your arborvitae is planted in too much shade or in poor soil, it may struggle.
 
Brown arborvitae trees need well-draining soil and at least six hours of sun daily.
 
Relocating a struggling tree can be a drastic but effective way to save brown arborvitae trees.
 
Ensure there’s enough space for roots to spread without competition from other plants.
 

2. Root Damage Causes Brown Arborvitae Trees

Construction, foot traffic, or digging near the tree can damage roots.
 
Damaged roots can’t supply enough water and nutrients to the foliage.
 
This often shows up as browning in sections of the tree over time.
 
If you suspect root damage, try mulching around the tree to reduce stress.
 
Avoid compacting the soil within the dripline to boost saving brown arborvitae trees.
 

3. Dog Urine Can Turn Arborvitae Trees Brown

Concentrated dog urine contains nitrogen that burns the foliage at ground level.
 
You’ll see browning on the lower branches near where dogs regularly go.
 
Flush the area with water to dilute the urine and wash away salts.
 
Consider creating a barrier or training your dog to go elsewhere.
 
This simple fix is a practical part of how to save brown arborvitae trees from pet damage.
 

Proven Steps to Save Brown Arborvitae Trees

Now that you know the causes, here are the practical actions for saving brown arborvitae trees.
 
Follow these steps consistently to restore your brown arborvitae trees to health.
 

1. Water Deeply and Regularly

Give your tree a long, slow soak once a week during dry spells.
 
Water at the base, not the foliage, to prevent fungal issues.
 
Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water deep into the soil.
 
This encourages deep root growth, which is vital for saving brown arborvitae trees.
 

2. Prune Dead or Damaged Branches

Cut back any completely brown or brittle branches to healthy green tissue.
 
Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts just above a node.
 
Don’t cut into bare wood where no green growth remains, as that part won’t regrow.
 
Pruning opens up the tree to air and light, helping brown arborvitae trees recover.
 

3. Apply a Quality Fertilizer

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for evergreen trees.
 
Apply it in early spring or late fall to give your tree a nutrient boost.
 
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can stress already struggling trees.
 
Proper feeding supports new growth and aids saving brown arborvitae trees over time.
 

4. Mulch to Protect Roots

Spread a two- to three-inch layer of organic mulch around the base.
 
Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.
 
Mulch helps retain moisture, moderate soil temperature, and reduce weed competition.
 
This simple practice is a cornerstone of how to save brown arborvitae trees.
 

5. Monitor and Treat Pests Early

Inspect your tree every couple of weeks during the growing season.
 
If you see bagworms, handpick them before they spread.
 
For scale or mites, spray with horticultural oil in the dormant season.
 
Early intervention is key to successfully saving brown arborvitae trees from infestation.
 

So, How to Save Brown Arborvitae Trees?

You can save brown arborvitae trees by identifying the cause and taking consistent action.
 
Brown arborvitae trees respond well to proper watering, pruning, and pest control.
 
Winter burn, pet urine, and poor planting also contribute to browning.
 
With patience and the right steps, your brown arborvitae trees can thrive again.
 
I hope this guide on how to save brown arborvitae trees has given you the answers you need.
 
Now you have the tools to bring your trees back to life.