Spruces in some form can now be found in many gardens. Although they are not considered particularly demanding, the needles often turn brown or even fall off. Quick help is called for here so that the tree does not die.
If the spruce loses needles, a lack of nutrients can be the reason
Why does the spruce lose needles?
When a spruce needles, it can have very different causes. Sometimes parasites are behind it, but often it is due to drought, a lack of nutrients or soil that is too firm. This can lead to waterlogging, which a spruce generally does not like.
Drought doesn't just happen in the hot summer, it can also cause your spruce to shed needles in the winter. If the ground is frozen, the spruce cannot absorb any water from it. However, if the sun shines at the same time, moisture evaporates through the needles and the spruce suffers dry damage.
Reasons for falling needles in spruce:
- parasites
- Transplant stress
- Drought, by frost or lack of water
- compacted soil
- nutrient deficiency
How can I help my spruce?
If you cannot identify any parasites such as bark beetles, the Sitka spruce aphid or spider mites and/or suspect a lack of water, then you should water your spruce extensively. Is the spruce in the pot? Thorough watering is particularly easy and uncomplicated here. Simply place the bale in a large bucket or trough filled with water. When it is saturated, place the spruce back in the planter.
Ball dryness can be difficult to remedy. If the root ball of the spruce dries out completely, the fine hair roots, which are particularly important for water absorption, are damaged. Usually the spruce then dies.
The most common parasite in spruce is probably the bark beetle. Contrary to popular belief, he doesn't only perform in the forest. It can also infest your spruce in the garden. The only thing that helps here is felling the affected spruce.
tips
Water your spruce thoroughly after a possible transplanting, but without waterlogging. During growth, the risk of ball dryness is particularly high.