Burned Evergreens a Symptom of Unusual Winter Weather
Wait - turn off the chainsaw and set down the clippers. Just because your evergreens are burned does NOT mean they are dead.
1. What caused the widespread burning of evergreens throughout Yellowstone County?
During the the months of October and early November, we maintained mild area temperatures even into the night in the 60 degrees range. This allowed the evergreens to remain in active growth. By mid-November, temperatures suddenly plummeted with snow and wind, and the evergreens were still in active growth. Without being in dormancy, the snow, wind and sun caused foliage burn.
2. How do you know if your plants are alive or not?
First check the branches for flexibility. If they are flexible, this indicates that new growth is possible. Take a look at the end of your pines, junipers and arborvitae and spruce trees. If new green buds are starting to emerge, this indicates that the tree is alive and once new growth begins to emerge, the old burned needles/scales will eventually drop. This could take up to two-to-four years for full recovery. Junipers and arborvitae will need some shearing and selective trimming.
IMPORTANT: Burned needles do NOT indicate pine bark beetle infestation. Before you remove your trees/shrubs, take a sample to your local nursery, garden center or county extension office to ensure you have an accurate diagnosis.
Please join us for our free seminar next Saturday, March 28th to learn about trimming, watering and fertilization.
Jim Gainan is President of Gainan's Flowers and Garden Center. He can be reached by email: jim@gainans.com
IMPORTANT FREE PUBLIC SEMINAR
810 BENCH BLVD
406-248-5029 (NO PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
TOPIC
2015 WIDESPREAD DAMAGED EVERGREENS IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTY; TO REMOVE OR NOT REMOVE?
How to care for your winter burned evergreens. Learn from the experts: Claire Johnson, CPP Certified Plant Professional with MNLA Montana Nursery and Landscape Association vice president, James Prchal, CPP.
Time : 10:00 am
Date: Saturday March 28, 2015
Bring a sample of your evergreens (particularly tips) if you would like individual questions answered.