Question: Three of my yews, two Brownii and one spreading, have turned brown on the inside of the plant. This condition is not visible unless the foliage is separated for inspection. Please advise cause and cure for this condition. FB, Illinois
Answer: The browning of the foliage on the inside of the vase shaped yews, Taxus Brownii, as well as on the spreader, is most likely due to heavy shade. While the yews like shade and a north exposure, dense shade causes the loss of the inside needles. Few insect pests bother the yews and most likely lack of light rather than pests causes the trouble. The next most likely cause of trouble is lack of food coupled with a deficiency of summer moisture. Yews, in general, are heavy feeders and respond well to feeding. Also they require a constantly moist soil but not a waterlogged condition. To provide food and at the same time to help keep the soil cool and moist there is nothing better than a heavy mulch of cow manure. Apply this mulch any time between now and early spring.
