Our Arborists and technicians have been finding significant needle desiccation all over the Denver Metro area.

This type of dry needle and leaf tissue is typically a result of our dry winter conditions in Colorado. This early winter has been more damaging than most years; needle desiccation normally becomes evident in the latter parts of January and February. The record setting temperature drops on October 15th and throughout the week of November 10th produced the coldest early temps in Colorado’s history. This extreme weather resulted in tissue damage to many plants including Pear, Cherry, Viburnum, Oak, and nearly every Pine that grows in Colorado.

In our deciduous trees the damaged portions are evident in the retention of leaves that did not go through their normal dormancy processes. In our evergreen trees we have found extensive amounts of dry needle tissue that has lost most of its color.

There is very little that can be done about the damage that has already occurred. Protecting the root systems of these trees for the remainder of the winter is “key” to making sure the plants have the best chance to begin their recovery first thing in the spring.

Pine Tree Needle Desiccation Prevention:

• Make sure to protect young trees throughout the winter by trunk wrapping those with thin bark which can be damaged by overexposure to the sun.
• Water your plants when dry winter conditions persist.
• Talk to your Arborist if you have questions or concerns about the best course of action for trees exhibiting damage.