Dying Yew bushes - Ask Extension
We have five or six yew bushes approx 30 years old along the retaining wall of our backyard.
Unfortunately, one died after last winter and we were f...
Knowledgebase
Dying Yew bushes #792399
Asked May 24, 2022, 11:56 AM EDT
We have five or six yew bushes approx 30 years old along the retaining wall of our backyard.
Unfortunately, one died after last winter and we were forced to cut it down. The branches of the rest
of them look like all of the tops are yellowing.
The ones in the front of the house are green and healthy.
What do you suggest is wrong with the ones that are yellowing, and where should we go from here?
Thanks in advance !
Yonina
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi Yonina!
Has anything changed in the surrounding landscape? Any digging, new drain pipe extensions or drainage changes in your yard or your neighbor's yard? Yews dislike wet roots and they are sensitive to changes in drainage. You could also check the stems for signs of scale - small, upraised growths like those shown here on our Scale page. Examine the base of the shrub as well for any signs of damage or gnawing. Please provide photos of any of the signs if possible - you can attach photos directly to your reply!
Jamie
