Colorado fir is losing needles

Care errors as the cause

Most often, mistakes in care are the cause of increased needle drop in the Colorado fir. Most often it is drought. If the summer heat is paired with prolonged drought, the Colorado fir suffers if it is not additionally watered. Young specimens in particular should then be poured abundantly.

The following points can also be the cause: nutrient deficiency, over-fertilization and waterlogging in the root area. If there is a lack of nutrients, fertilizing with Epsom salt helps, as this contains magnesium, which is essential for Colorado firs. In the event of over-fertilization and waterlogging, you can transplant young specimens. There are no other options in these cases.

Unsuitable location as the cause

Colorado fir trees prefer to be in a location where they can find both light and shade. Therefore, partially shaded locations are ideal for them. In the blazing sun, for example, in a sheltered south-facing location, they do not feel comfortable. Young Colorado firs in particular are at risk of sunburn there. The needles turn yellow, brown, and eventually fall off.

Diseases as the cause

Maintenance errors or an unsuitable location do not always have to be behind the needle ejection. Also, your Colorado Fir may be sick. It is usually considered to be less susceptible to disease. But sometimes the following Diseases strike:

• Pine cancer
• Pine needle rust
• Gray mold

Pests as the cause

In dry periods, trees such as the Colorado fir are prone to pest infestation. The wood is weakened and its antibodies are no longer effective. Check the crop for pest infestation!

Among others can Spider mites make life difficult for the Colorado fir. But the black-spotted weevil knows how to use its biting tools well. On top of that, lice such as the pine stem louse or the cinare bark louse can appear and suck out the needles.