Is Evergreen Tree Causing Some Nearby Yews To Turn Yellow

Question From: J. bartoszek - NEW JERSEY
Q: My neighbor's yew hedge has been turning yellow and dying out. She feels that it is because my evergreen tree next to an area of their bushes is possibily to blame. She says the roots are invasive and taking their nurtrients. Now the yews and evergreens I have near this evergreen are very full and green. So she now believes that perhaps her soil is full of more nutrients and the tree roots are growing in that direction. I really don't know what to do. Great neighbors. The idea of cutting down the tree (maybe 20 feet tall) seems a bit much. I suggested she send a soil sample to the state university for testing. Also, she has cut some of the tree roots she finds near her bushes. I worry that is just setting-up this tree to fail. Help!

A:

I don't know what to tell her. You might enlist the services of a certified arborist to do an onsite inspection. Should cost about $75. She may listen to a professional. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.