Dead Area on a Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Cultural Problems

• The most common cultural problem leading to dead areas on the dwarf Alberta spruce is improper planting. If planted too close to a building or other structure, the part of the tree that is closest to the structure will turn brown and die. This occurs because of a lack of sunshine and the tree’s inability to carry out photosynthesis without sunlight. If you notice the problem before there is too much damage, transplant the tree farther away from the building where light can reach all of its branches.

Environmental Problems

• Dwarf Alberta spruce is particularly susceptible to winter burn – a type of desiccation caused by dry winter air. It starts at the tips of the shoots – they’ll turn brown and appear dead – and works its way back toward the trunk. You’ll typically see brown patches on the windward side of a tree suffering from winter burn. Wait for new growth to appear in spring and hope that it hides the brown patches. If no new growth is produced on a branch, assume it’s dead and remove it. Prevent winter burn and sunburn by planting your dwarf Alberta spruce in a spot behind shrubs or on the east or north side of the house.

Disease

• If the lower branches are affected, the dwarf Alberta spruce may be a victim of cytospora canker, a fungal disease cause by Cytospora kunzei. You may also find resin, with a blue cast, flowing from the tree’s bark. In advanced cases the upper branches die as well. Cytospora canker typically strikes older spruce trees that have been weakened or injured. Stop the spread of the disease by pruning out infected stems and branches. This should be done in winter, before the fungal pathogen has the opportunity to release additional spores. Cut the branches back either to the trunk or to the next living lateral branch. Dip the pruning tools into a solution of 1 part of household bleach in 3 parts of water between each cut.

Pest Problems

• Spring and fall are spruce spider mite seasons, and a large infestation can turn parts of the dwarf Alberta spruce brown. The tiny mites are difficult to see, but they leave tell-tale webbing in their wake. Look for it at the base of the spruce’s needles. Products to control spruce spider mites include chemical and organic sprays. If you choose to use chemical sprays, choose one with bifenthrin, fentabutatin-oxide or dicofol as the active ingredient and carefully follow the product's instructions. Safer products include oil-based insecticidal soap sprays. Controlling for spider mites requires thoroughly covering all parts of the dwarf Alberta spruce tree with the insecticide or soap, to the point of dripping.