Question
We have an office plant about 3 feet tall that is a Norfork Pine.  It has changed offices this last year and has healthy new growth on the top but the bottom branches are browning and dropping off.  What needs to be done.

Answer
Sharon:

From your description, this doesn't sound like a bona fide infectious (contagious) disease, but rather an unfavorable environment.  Difficult to say what it may be w/o seeing the plant in person.  Many possibilities such as (1) some change in temperature/light/watering schedules ie. is it staying wetter/drier or colder/hotter etc.  If it was allowed to dry down, leaf drop can occur.  Sometimes a change in light can cause the plant react like this.

Look the branches over for insects just in case. Soil needs to be just barely moist, but not overly wet.  Soil needs to be well drained. Be sure the plant roots have not got too big for the pot (roots not crowded).

You may consider visiting with your local garden center/nursery about the symptoms (not the big box stores)they may give you some clues.  These plants tend to be slow growers and like a lot of bright light.  I've seen these plants 40 feet tall and growing outside- quite a sight!

Regards
Steve