Expert: Edward Gulliksen - 8/13/2007

Question
Hello,
I purchased a house with 2 Dwarf Alberta spruces in the front.  They look fine from the front, but the backs of them are brown and thinning.  I have added holly tone to the roots but do not see any change.  Three question I would like answered: Is it dying?  Should I cut it back in the winter?  Do you know what is wrong with them?

Thanks, Mickie  

Answer
Mickie,

The die back on the house ward side is probably due a combination of limited sunlight and the heat that is reflected off the siding of the house. I would not recommend pruning the front, but you could take off the dead in the back- this area will not regrow anyway. Keep them well watered and fertilized and they should live for many years.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen