My cryptomeria is turning brown near the center trunk. Should I be concerned?

Cryptomeria and other conifers can have brown needles for several reasons. If there has been a drought the plant will drop some of its needles. If this is the case, make sure to water during dry spells. Brown interior needles are often a more benign condition. The plant recognizes that those needles are being shaded and are not generating nutrients for the tree. The tree will then drop those needles to improve efficiency. If you don’t like the look of the brown needles you can knock the needles off.

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