I have noticed that many of the Redwood trees in our area (Arcata) on the N. California Coast, are currently showing evidence of brown and in fewer cases yellow needles. They detach from the tree very easily and is seems to be spreading. What might this be? I assume it is not SOD.

Reply to post by Rick, on September 01, 2002 at 01:52:46:

Rick,
Been drier or warmer than normal up your way?
In the Sacramento Valley, common causes of redwood needle scorch are alkaline water, drought stress, dry wind, high temperatures, and salty spray onto foliage.

Reply to post by Steve, on September 01, 2002 at 01:52:46:

Down near the bottom of the newsletter linked below, it says coastal redwoods normally lose needles in summer, more so if stressed by drought.

Another thought: could it be that there are high local ozone sources? I don't know about redwood, but some trees are very sensitive. And summer weather often concentrates this pollutant near ground level.