This tree (see attached) was here when we moved in, but it seems to become drier and more brown with each passing year. I've been told that it is not a blue spruce and that it may have reached the end of its life (the house is 22 years old, so we're assuming the tree may be about the same age). Can anyone give me any information about it? What kind of privacy tree might be a good replacement? Thanks, in advance
Boulevard cypress having some kind of cultural problem, would otherwise live much longer than 22 years. Old dead foliage showing as these age and the outer shell of live foliage opens up normal, but such a high percentage of dead all at one time, with some sections dead nearly to the tip not normal.
Thank-you very much, Ron. Does anyone know of a good arborist? I've looked up a general list for the lower mainland, but was hoping for a good referral or two. We're in Delta, just outside of Vancouver. Thanks again
I've just had an arborist do some work and can tell you about him and the others we had do estimates. Actually the guy we hired lives in Delta, I believe. I'm going to send you a private message via this site - if you don't get it, let me know. Edit: Whoops, just noticed you don't have email or PM options enabled. Well, send me a PM or an email if you want a name. Edit: that could be because you are a new member, and I don't know if you'll be able to send me a message either. Well, post here if you can't send me a message.
I'am not an arborist but these trees/shrub are prone to spider mites because of their dence foliage. You can check this your self with a magnifying glass. Shake some of the dryed needles onto a white piece of paper and you should see them moving about. These trees drop lots of needles every where and will suck up all available water and the roots will take over a large area. When these trees get this large they become high maintenance and horrible to prune. My advice cut it down.
Thanks, Greg. I agree, it is horrible to prune! I've come to terms with cutting it down, but am desperate for a fast growing replacement because this tree sheilds a huge kitchen window from the neighbours. Can anyone suggest something that will prevent us from living in a fishbowl for very long? That side of the house is southeast facing and space is limited. I was hoping for some kind of fast growing evergreen that is available locally. (Delta)
In trees, especially conifers, fast growing = large growing; there's not much help for it. If it's a tree you need, then just plan to take it down when it gets too big. However, estimate the height at which you really need the screening. perhaps a tall shrub would do the trick, and in the evergreen world you'd have Rhododendrons, boxwood, yews, and more to choose from. You can always put up a trellis or something else for temporary screening until they grow in. As far as "available locally" is concerned, the marketplace for trees and shrubs around here is fantastic; there's little you can't get even if you confine yourself to Delta, but if you're willing to drive a suburb or two over, the world's your oyster.
Replace with broadleaf evergreen like Pacific wax myrtle. This develops rapidly when growing well and has an upswept habit.
If you do decide to remove it, check with the tree preservation bylaw for corp of delta, its available on their website. I mention this as the tree might be on the cusp of needing a removal permit, it depends on the thickness of the trunk at about 4.5 feet above ground.
