Question
I have several evergreen shrubs that are turning rust color and look like they are
dying.  I water with well water that contains alot of sodium.  Is this the problem?
Can they be saved?

Answer
Sylvia,

The high salt content of the water is probably effecting the plants, but I do not think it is causing the problem.

If the plants are turning a rust color, I would recommend checking them for mites. Shake the branches over a white sheet of paper, if there are any black or red spots that are moving around on the paper, then you have mites. Treat with a miticide to minimize further damage.

The other condition that it could be is rust. This is a disease that is extremely difficult to control due to the nature of the fungus. You will need to get a registered fungicide that is labeled for this disease.

Good luck,
Ed Gulliksen