Why Is My Foliage On My Evergreen Turning Orange?
Evergreen trees are a staple of many landscapes, providing year-round greenery and structure. However, it's common to notice some changes in their appearance, especially in late summer to early autumn. This is known as evergreen flagging and can cause concern among gardeners. Here’s what you need to know about evergreen flagging, why it happens, and how to manage it.
What is Flagging?
Evergreen flagging refers to the process where interior parts of an evergreen's foliage turn yellow, orange, or brown in a spotty or patchy manner. This is different from the complete browning of a tree, which signifies more serious issues. To put it in perspective, evergreen flagging is somewhat compared to the leaf color change and shedding seen in deciduous trees during fall.
Flagging is a natural process and usually not a sign of severe health problems. It often occurs in both young and mature evergreens, whether newly planted or well-established.
Common Causes of Flagging
Evergreen flagging is typically a response to stress. Several factors can trigger this response:
Hot/Dry Summers: Extended periods of heat and dryness can stress evergreen trees, leading to flagging.
Cold but Sunny Winters: Lack of cloud cover during cold winters can exacerbate stress on evergreens.
Post-Transplant Stress: The year following a transplant is a common time for flagging, as the tree adjusts to its new location and works on re-establishing its root system.
Shade: The interior parts of evergreens do not receive sunlight and aren't able to properly photosynthesis, instead of the tree focusing on the growth in the interior of the tree. The focus will be withdrawn from the interior and to provide new growth for the tree.
What to Do When You See Flagging
Spring Cleanup: By spring, the winter’s snow and rain usually help remove the discolored foliage. If some foliage remains, you can gently run your hands through the branches to knock off the dead needles. Rake up any fallen foliage from around the base to prevent it from accumulating and potentially causing rot.
Water and Fertilize: Ensure your evergreen is well-watered and consider applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to support new growth and overall health.
Proper Placement: If your evergreen is placed in front of a fence or another structure that limits sunlight, you may see more pronounced flagging on the side facing away from the sun. Positioning your evergreen where it receives ample sunlight can help mitigate this issue.
Soil Improvement: Adding a thin layer of compost, such as sheep or seaweed compost, can improve soil quality and support healthier growth.
Special Considerations for Emerald Cedars
Emerald Cedars, like other evergreens, may also exhibit flagging. This is often due to their tendency to focus energy on sustaining their top half, especially when stressed by transplanting. They may drop lower foliage to allocate more resources to their root system. As the roots re-establish, the tree should fill in the bare areas.
If your Cedars are placed near a fence or another obstruction, the shaded side may appear more sparse. Ensuring proper sunlight exposure and improving soil health can help the tree recover and thrive.
Evergreen flagging is a normal part of an evergreen’s life cycle and often not a cause for major concern. With proper care, such as regular watering, appropriate fertilization, and strategic placement, your evergreen will usually recover and continue to enhance your landscape. If you have further questions or concerns, feel free to visit us in-store for personalized advice and support.
Happy gardening!
