The Monkey Puzzle Tree (botanical name *Araucaria araucana*) goes by many names—Chilean Pine, Living Fossil, or simply the Monkey Tree. Despite the funny name, it doesn’t actually have anything to do with monkeys! This South American native has become a real showstopper in home gardens lately thanks to its unique, prehistoric look.
Why is my Monkey Puzzle Tree turning brown?
If you’re noticing brown branches or needles, it can be a bit of a mystery because the causes are often polar opposites. For instance, these trees suffer if they’re bone-dry, but they’ll also struggle if they have “wet feet” from standing water. Both extremes lead to browning. Other culprits include frost damage, general maintenance mishaps, the wrong planting spot, or even fungal infections.
Common reasons for browning:
- Drought/Dry soil
- Waterlogging (too much water)
- Poor location
- Improper care
- Frost damage
- Fungal infections
How can I save my Monkey Puzzle Tree?
First things first: do a quick soil check. A simple finger test will tell you if the ground is parched or soaked, and you can adjust your watering routine from there. If the spot you chose is naturally swampy, your best bet is transplanting the tree to a better spot or installing a drainage layer. For trees in pots, swap out the soggy soil for fresh, well-draining mix and hold off on the fertilizer for a few weeks while it recovers.
If you’re dealing with frost damage or a fungus, it’s time to grab the pruning shears or a saw. Unfortunately, these trees don’t usually “bounce back” from these issues on their own. Prune away the brown branches close to the trunk. Just a heads-up: don’t expect new growth to sprout from those exact spots. The gaps left behind will be visible for quite a while, so patience is key!
How do I prevent browning in the future?
The best offense is a good defense! To keep your Monkey Puzzle Tree lush and green, it really comes down to “right plant, right place.” If you give it a sunny spot with loose, well-draining soil, you’re already halfway there.
Keep an eye on the nutrients and make sure it gets enough water. These trees are surprisingly thirsty, but they absolutely hate sitting in stagnant water. If you’re growing your Araucaria in a container, remember to fertilize regularly and give it some extra protection from the frost during the winter months.
Pro Tip: Since Monkey Puzzle Trees are a bit sensitive to heavy pruning, always be extra careful with the saw—even when you’re just removing brown branches.
