Yew Needles Turning Brown In Spots

Question From: k. whitten - WEST VIRGINIA
Q: I have several japanese yews as shrubs around my house..they have been here for 30 years...this year one shrub died and some other shrubs needles are turning brown in spots. What can I do? Thanks

A:

Your yews may be suffering from lack of water and/or spider mites. Spraying the plants with a hard stream of water making sure to hit the undersides of the needles will wash them off. You will need to repeat the process every 3 to 5 days for a couple of weeks. Give the shrubs - they are Japanese Yews, a good soaking once a week if it does not rain. The soil should be moist not sodden. Katherine, your best bet is to have a certified arborist - a trained tree and shrub doctor make an on-site diagnosis. Best and Happy Yardening, Nancy