Salt can also compound the problem for trees planted near roadways. Drier than normal conditions have prevailed in three of the last four years. Drought will often weaken your tree and make them more susceptible to browning, as well. Brown needles normally show up in March and April, but this winter they began appearing in January. Brown branches most often affect pines, spruces, firs, yews, arborvitae, and cedar.
Damage is most noticeable on the west and south sides of the plants.
There is nothing you can do to save the needles. They will eventually fall off. The good news is the buds on each branch will soon spring to life and produce a new whorl of green needles. Keep the tree watered if mother nature does not provide enough this spring. Fertilizer spikes will also improve the health and vigor of your evergreen trees and shrubs.