05/22/2026
Are your arborvitae greening up, or are they looking a little... crispy right now? 🌲 👀
Every spring, the Longtree crew gets the same question: "Is my arborvitae dead, or will it recover?" In Michigan, our freezing winds and heavy snow cause major winter burn. But while some trees bounce back beautifully by June, others are permanently gone.
Here is how to tell the difference in 30 seconds:
1. The "Scratch Test"
Gently scratch a brown twig with your fingernail or a pocket knife.
Green underneath? It’s alive! The tree just suffered winter desiccation and should flush out with new growth soon.
Brown and brittle? That branch is dead.
2. Check the Tips vs. the Inside
Brown inside, green outside: Normal shedding. It’s just making room for new growth.
Fried tips, dead buds: If the very tips of the branches are brittle and lifeless, the damage might be permanent, especially if deer used them as a winter buffet.
3. Location, Location, Location
Did it get hit by road salt? Trees near driveways or roads often suffer salt damage that mimics winter burn but is much harder to recover from.
The Verdict: Don't give up on them just yet! Give your trees a good deep watering this month and wait to see if new growth appears.
👉 Drop a photo of your arborvitae in the comments below, and our team will tell you if there’s hope or if it’s time for a replacement!
