Photo by Chal Landgren, OSU.

Causes

Photo by Chal Landgren, OSU.

  • Extreme high temperatures and/or intense sunlight

Signs & Symptoms

Photo by Chal Landgren, OSU.

  • Groups of needles on a shoot quickly turn reddish-brown.
  • Entire tree appears burned/reddened due to late-season high temperatures that damage needles and shoots.
  • Heat, drought, and sunscald damage are closely related.

Where to Look

  • South or southwest side of the trees

Similar Symptoms As

  • Current season needle necrosis
  • Mechanical damage
  • Chemical injury

Management Options

  • Protect young seedlings using shade devices, such as shingles and cards.
  • In older plantings, try to maximize soil moisture levels.