Cedar Trees Have Brown Outer Leaves

Question From: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States
Q: I have cedar trees that have been healthy for 18 months. Last fall the irrigation in our community was turned off for winter. We had a break in the system and no water until late April of 2018. Some of my cedars are browning on the outer leaves. Community landscape company is in denial of lack of water causing the problem and blame that they are planted near a brick wall! The wall was there for 18months prior when trees were healthy. What can I do not to avert replacing them ones that have died on some of the exterior lbranches. I know the interior die out is normal.

A: Winter kill on branch tips is not unusual and it varies from year to year. If they were my trees I would get an onsite inspection from a certified arborist to assess the situation. To find one in your area go to www.tcia.org and enter your zip code. Charlotte may also have a city arborist, check with city hall. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy