GRAVETTE — Browning of needles in evergreenssuchaspinesandarborvitae is normal, according to the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.

“Some of our most common landscape plants, such as pines and arborvitae, drop a certain set of needles all the time, giving the impression that the plant is sick,” said Jim Robbins, extension horticulture specialist-ornamentals, for the U of A Division of Agriculture. “This significant needle drop is normal.”

Tamara Walkingstick, associate center director for the Arkansas Forest Resources Center of the U of A Division of Agriculture, said that now is the time to capitalize on pine leaf drop.

“In fact, right now is the best time to start harvesting pine straw for your garden,” she said.

For information on this or other agricultural products contact the cooperative extension office in Bentonville.

News, Pages 9 on 03/03/2010