AboutJim Hyland Expertise I am an expert in Forestry, Forest Entomology, Forest Pest Control, and Forest Health. Extensive knowledge in Identification of insects and diseases of trees. Expert on Bark beetles and other insects that attack forests. Also a Registrated Forester with extensive knowledge in the management and care of forests.
Experience 34 years as State Pest Management Chief in a Southern state. Extensive knowledge in Forestry.
BS with major in Forest Management and Entomology Registered Forester Certified Pesticide Appicator
Question My husband and I are building a house south of Spokane, WA, which is zone 5. We have lots of Ponderosa Pines on the property. It seems lots of the trees have dead branches near the bottom, and these branches have what looks like brown moss hanging from them. Could the trees need to be thinned and thus the remaining trees stronger and get more sun? Any advice would be much appreciated.
Thanks.
Answer Lower limbs of pines will die and shed due to shading from sunlight. This is normal and these dead limbs can be pruned off. It will be difficult to advise on if these trees need thinning not knowing how many there are and the closeness to each other and their age. I would suggest you call the Washington State Forestry agency and ask one of their Foresters to come out and advise you on the ground. Thus is a free service in most states.
