Question
QUESTION: Hello Jim,
I noticed my redwood tree (about 80ft) has twice more brown leaves this year and I am concerned that it might have a pest.  A friend mentioned beetles but several arborists said redwoods don't get pests and my friend is no arborist.  I love that tree and want to make it better without subjecting it and my wallet to abuse.  What should I do?
Thank you,
Christine

ANSWER: If the needles that are turning are on the inside of the crown this is normal. The outer needles should be green and the ones turning are the older needles just shedding. There are not many insects or diseases that effect the needles of redwood. There is a needles cast fungi but this only causes the older needles to drop sooner. As long as the needles on the ends of the branches are green there is no serious problem and the tree will be OK.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Could you please explain what "inside of the crown" means?

Answer
Evergreens have two sets of needles on them--they will drop the oldest set of needles once the new ones have matured. But there will be green needles on the tree year round. These older needles are on the branches back nearest the trunk (the inside of the crown of foliage).