Why Is My Pine Tree Dying From the Bottom Up?

Is your pine tree dying from the bottom up? Whether you see browning needles or thinning branches, you’re not alone in this woody predicament. Many a tree lover has looked out their window to find their formerly sprightly specimen appearing rough around the edges.

As the go-to tree removal company in Vero Beach, FL, we at King Tree Management have diagnosed our fair share of wilting evergreen trees. Understanding tree death causes is crucial in addressing these issues effectively. Keep reading as we break down the top culprits and the next best step to take.

Lack of Water

Florida’s heat can be relentless, and your tree, much like us humans, craves hydration during these sweltering times. When water becomes scarce, your tree may start to show signs of drought stress. Thirsty pines will gradually turn yellowish green, then light brown. It’s the plant’s way of shutting down to conserve what little moisture it has left. 

What to Do: While you can’t control Mother Nature, you can surely lend a helping hand by providing ample water during the dry spells. Consider mulching the surrounding soil to retain moisture.

A Pest or Disease

Active infestations and infections can leave your pine tree dying from the bottom up. Beware the pine beetle, a miscreant in the world of conifers. These insects can bore into your tree, turning it into a cozy home for their larvae.

On the ailment front, watch out for Cytospora canker disease, the pine’s equivalent to the common cold. This fungal foe invades through wounds, causing branches to wither and die over time. Bleeding resin and sunken cankers give away its presence.

What to Do: Consult a local arborist who can properly diagnose these issues and suggest suitable treatment or removal options.

Lack of Sunlight

Pine trees are sun-lovers by nature, and they require a good amount of daily exposure to thrive. When their access to sunlight becomes compromised — perhaps by a newly erected structure or a larger tree — they can begin to wilt and die from the bottom up. The lower branches, starved of precious sunlight, gradually lose their lush green glow and turn brown. 

What to Do: If a tree or a man-made structure overshadows your pine, you might want to consider relocating it to a sunnier spot. When that’s not feasible, a pruning session can reduce the overall demand for nutrients and water.

Natural Stage of Growth

As your pine tree ages, it may lose some of its lower branches. This natural process can happen every two to five years and is part of the tree’s strategy for survival, directing resources towards the top limbs that can catch more sunlight.

What to do: If you don’t know whether you have a pine tree dying from the bottom up or if it’s simply going through a natural growth process, call (772) 633-1939. Our crew at King Tree Management can help you decipher the signs and determine the best course of action. We can also address alarming symptoms like dying tree branches on one side, stagnant growth, and more.