We have a row of ancient Cedars of some kind on our street (W 15th between Maple/Cypress). They have been dying over the years one by one. This month another two died. It happened within just 2 months (probably 100+ year tree) right before our eyes. Such a shame! In the past, somebody mentioned some root bug spreading, so we did not think we could do much. But looking at it, the dead tree has lots of little holes and small black bugs all over it. 5-7 mm in size. Pine beetle? If so, what can be done to protect the remaining trees? Some organic spray (wikipedia lists a few for pine beetle)? Can you recommend a specialist we can contract? We will contact city as well, of course, but can't wait long as I see the tree next starting to pick up these holes and bugs. Appreciate any help! Tony
Cypresses of some sort, not cedars; probably Lawson's Cypress. In which case, Phytophthora root disease is the most likely cause, with the beetles just moving in after the tree had died.
Michael, what is the remedy? Why does this happen? It is odd that this one tree was impacted in the middle of row of others.
Yellow Chamaecyparis lawsonia cultivar planting being taken out by water molds, there is a lot of this going on now both in cultivation and in the wild. All that can be done is to remove affected trees and avoid the species in future plantings.
Thanks Ron and Michael. You got me looking in the right direction. An arborist confirmed your suggestions today.