Any Christmas tree species, especially non-adapted seed sources or exotic species
Causes
Cold temperatures, desiccation, or formation of ice crystals within cells
Signs & Symptoms
Appears as damage to needles, bark, and bud tissues
Reddish-brown needles (when only needles are damaged)
Death of buds or shoots (in severe cases)
Symptoms may not be evident until warmer conditions later in spring.
Injured plants cannot obtain water from frozen soil or move water through frozen tissues.
Where to Look
South to southwest side of the tree or on tissue above snow cover
Similar Symptoms As
Drought
Management Options
Carefully monitor sources adapted to extremely cold areas. They may experience winter injury or frost damage as they begin growth too soon in mild winters.
Learn which locations and/or seed sources/species are more prone than others.
