Conifers browning

[stevepbuk]

Hi,

Can anyone help me understand whats going on with my Conifers. It started about 3 years ago when I noticed they were starting to go brown from the bottom branches. I presumed its because I had cut them back too far that year so since then I have been a lot more careful, however it still seems to be progressing. There are new shoots growing in the same areas slowly. I read on a site to check the soil and it doesnt appear water logged. The bark at the bottom also seems in good condition. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks

Steve

 

[Munroast]

did they turn brown when we had the very very dry spell a few years ago ? a lot did and they rarely revcover

 

[stevepbuk]

I think its been a more gradual thing over the years rather than a one off event. It definitely started a few years ago though. They still seem to be progressively getting worse year on year.

 

[Koolpc]

No way back from that.

 

[stevepbuk]

Actually I take that back. Just pulled a photo from 2 years ago and they look pretty much identical. What is the best way of trying to sort this. I know connifers wont grow back from browning but there are shoots that are actively growing. Shall I cut all the browning branches off. Will that help? Thanks

 

[aveatry]

I think there is a bug or fungus that does that

 

[stevepbuk]

I suspected that too, but it appears to be growing new shoots which I wouldnt expect in that scenario.

 

[aveatry]

I suspected that too, but it appears to be growing new shoots which I wouldnt expect in that scenario.

Bugs or fungus died off ? due to really hot weather last year maybe. Despite gloom from others it will grow back, some dead bits may stay dead but other growth from elsewhere will fill it in over time.

 

[Odds]

Cut away the deadwood and feed them, i'd suggest, if you want to keep them.
Consider other underlying problems, though. All kinds of things can be the reason why they look like this.