Marianne's Response

What is happening?

We planted these Thuja Occidentalis “smaragd” Arborvitae in April and look what is happening. Any ideas? They got lots of water this summer. We planted 18 of them and 4 of them are slowly dying. Also, on the ones that look good, is the random brown stuff normal? Thank you!

Posted by Debbie Owens on October 16, 2017

Marianne's Response

My sympathies - the shrub that is all brown is dead. The shrub with sections of brown may be damaged by underground moles or voles as just one branch is brown not the entire shrub. Look for entry holes in the border and set a mole or mouse traps. In spring you will get a fresh start so remove the brown shrubs, check for root damage and if necessary protect the roots of newly planted shrubs with wire mesh to keep out the underground rodents. Too much water, accidental spray with an herbicide or lack of water in clay soil can also show up as brown foliage like in the  photo. Don't give up and Keep growing, Marianne Binetti