Question
Hi Jim,

About a month ago, I planted 25 Leyland Cyprus trees.  Since that time some of the branches at the base of the trees are dying.  I would say that 60% have this happening to them.  I water them according to specs.  I have yet to spray them with anything.  Because I don't know if this is a true infection or just stress of planting (proper or improper).  I would greatly appreciate any insight you might be able to offer.  By the way, one of the local nurseries told me it is most likely due to not enough watering and spider mites.  I've read some about spider mites and I really don't think that's the problem.  By the way, I live in northern Virginia.
Thanks for your time,
Jill

Answer
Since you say this is effecting the lower branches, I would tend to agree that it is stress from the planting and the hot weather. I would water them deep by watering with 1 inch of water every third day. Place a pan under one of the trees and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop. Or you can hand water each tree until the soil is damp down to 6-8 inches deep.
Do not fertilize them until they have been in the ground at least 1 year.