If your yew tree is dropping needles like crazy, don’t panic just yet! While a thinning tree can definitely be a sign of trouble, it’s often just part of the plant’s natural life cycle. Here’s the scoop on why your yew might be losing its needles and how to tell if you need to step in.
Is Your Tree Just Getting a Makeover?
Every five to seven years, the yew goes through a major “wardrobe change.” The tree will shed a significant portion of its old needles to make room for fresh, new growth. This can look pretty dramatic, and I’ve seen plenty of gardeners get spooked thinking their tree is dying.
To figure out if this is just a natural refresh, take a close look at the new needles. If they’re coming in a healthy, vibrant green, your tree is likely just fine. However, if the new growth is turning yellow or brown and falling off right away, you’ve got a problem. In that case, you might be dealing with a fungal infection or some pesky pests that need to be dealt with ASAP.
Is Your Yew Thirsty?
Another big reason for needle drop is drought stress. It’s easy to forget that yews lose a lot of moisture through their needles via evaporation. They need plenty of water during those scorching summer months, but don’t let your guard down in the winter! A sunny, dry winter can be just as tough on them. If the ground isn’t frozen, give your yew a good drink to keep it hydrated.
Here is the kind of soil your yew loves best:
- Well-draining and moderately moist
- A spot without standing water (no “wet feet”!)
- Plenty of nutrients
Keep in mind that young, newly planted yews are much thirstier than the old-timers. Established yews have deep root systems that can find water way down in the soil, but youngsters are still working on that. Make sure to water your new trees regularly and give them a little fertilizer to help them settle in. With a bit of TLC, your little tree will be back to its lush self in no time!
