Expert: Jim Hyland - 2/2/2005

Question
First off, thanks for any insight you might be able to provide.  I have three pine trees located in my front yard (about 20 yards apart from each other) which is in Northern Virginia.  They were there when I bought the house a few yers back so not sure on exact kind.  They are about 20 feet in height and I am in Northern Virginia.  

About 3 months ago (rough guess) needles began to drop off some of the branches.  At this point, the top foot of the tree is bare of needles along with some patches throughout.  Roughly, 75% of the tree is still covered with needles.  The other nearby trees are fine and seem to show no problem.

Any clue to what would cause this?  Disease?  Insect?  Should I be spraying these trees or do anything to care for them?  I don't do anything currently for them.

I uploaded a picture that I took of the top of the tree if that would help in anyway.  It's at photos.yahoo.com/douglassabel in the album called "Pine Tree".  Again, thanks for any info.  

Answer
I could not get the picture. This could be several things from insects or disease to just "normal" leaf fall. I would personally lean toward leaf fall. But if you would contact the Va. Departmant of Forestry office nearest you they can send a Forester out and check the trees. Their number should be in the phone book and this service is free. If you can not find the number email Chris Asaro at chris.asaro@dof.virginia.gov. Chris is the Forest Health Specilaist with the Va. Department of Forestry and either he can help or get you help.