Question
We purchased our Fat Albert in May 2009, 7' tall. We are noticing some of the needles around the base of the tree, west side are turning brown, should i have a concern ? I live in Flagstaff, AZ.
Thank you

Answer
No needles of spruce as well as other conifers will drop naturally. As long as the upper needles near the ends of the branches are green the tree is ok. If you have not done so mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not piled up on the trunk. This will help hold moisture around the root system.