Common Cultural: Needle loss

categories: Common Problems Cultural Problems

revision date: 2022-10-31 02:48

Pine natural needle drop.
Pine natural needle drop
Photo by: R. Maleike

Biology

Conifer trees periodically shed older needles. In the early fall following a dry summer, western red cedar often dramatically shed older needles; this is known as cedar flagging. Broadleaf evergreen plants also show periodic dropping (abscission) of older leaves. This is a natural biological process and not cause for concern in most instances.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

None recommended.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

None recommended.

Additional Images