Have you noticed a brown tint to the middle of your beloved conifers? Don't worry, gardening enthusiast, we're here to explore the reasons behind this issue and provide you with some valuable insights into how to deal with it in the year 2023.

The Root of the Problem

There are a few possible causes behind the browning of your conifers in the middle. Ranging from natural occurrences to some challenges that can be tackled with appropriate care, let's have a look at these causes:

  1. Natural Ageing Process: Conifers naturally shed their older needles and stems while producing new growth. However, during this process, the older foliage turns yellow or brown before falling off. This can give you the impression of an unhealthy conifer, but in most cases, it's merely a normal process.
  1. Lack of Water Supply: Insufficient watering can lead to the inner needles turning brown and dying off. Conifers can be quite thirsty, and during the dry season or in well-drained soil, they might not receive enough water to stay green.
  1. Pest Infestations: Pests such as spider mites, aphids, and scale insects can cause browning in the middle of your conifers. These pests usually feed on the sap of the tree, causing damage to the inner foliage.
  1. Diseases and Fungal infections: Diseases such as root rot and needle blight, along with different fungal infections, can often lead to browning in conifers. These infections usually begin in the inner parts of the tree and slowly spread, affecting the health of your tree.

What Can Be Done?

Now that we've identified the potential causes of browning, let's explore some practical solutions that could help restore your conifers' health and prevent future discolouration.

  • Monitor the Watering Routine: In dry seasons and periods with no rain, make an effort to water your conifers deeply (but not excessively), ensuring the root system remains well hydrated.
  • A Protective Layer of Mulch: Applying mulch around the base of your conifers can help retain soil moisture and keep the roots cool during hot summer days. A layer of 5-10 cm of mulch is enough to provide a healthy environment for the roots.
  • Pest Control: Keep an eye out for pests that can damage your trees. For minor infestations, a strong blast of water from your hose can dislodge pests. If the infestation persists, consider organic or chemical pest control solutions available at your local garden centre.
  • Proper Maintenance: Maintain a balanced fertilising regime and prune only when necessary to promote better air circulation and overall tree health. This can help prevent fungal infections and diseases.

In Conclusion

Don't let the brown in your conifers dampen your gardening spirit! Assess the issue and take appropriate steps to combat it. One of the best practices for maintaining a healthy garden is to monitor your plants regularly and take swift action when you spot a problem. By doing so, you can keep your conifers and other plants in your garden thriving throughout the year.

Happy gardening!