Common Cultural: Needle loss

categories: Common Problems Cultural Problems

last review date: 2026-03-26 03:49

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

See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

None recommended.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: For more information on using pesticides, visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets | Pesticide Resources and Education Program | Washington State University.

None recommended.