Will the yellow needles turn green again?

No, once a needle turns yellow or brown, it will not recover. Focus on protecting the new growth.

Are spider mites common on spruce?

Yes, they are very common, especially in hot and dry weather. They thrive when the tree is already stressed by lack of water.

Norway spruce: yellow leaves, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the needles for fine webbing.
Check the soil moisture level at the base.
Look for tiny moving specks on a white paper.

Likely causes

Spruce spider mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see fine webbing between needles and a stippled, yellow appearance on the foliage. Shake a branch over a white piece of paper to see if tiny mites fall off.
What to do: Spray the tree with a strong stream of water to knock the mites off. If the infestation is heavy, apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil according to the label instructions.
Drought stress
Possible
How to tell: The needles turn a dull yellow or light green, especially during hot, dry summers. The soil around the base will feel dry and cracked.
What to do: Water the tree deeply once every 7 to 14 days. Ensure the water reaches the root zone by letting a hose trickle slowly at the base for an hour.

Yellow leaves on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your norway spruce

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If the yellowing spreads rapidly across the whole tree, it is a serious issue. Some interior yellowing in late summer is normal as the tree sheds old needles.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the tree well watered during dry spells and maintain a layer of mulch to keep the roots cool.

Norway spruce: yellow leaves? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your norway spruce and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will the yellow needles turn green again?: No, once a needle turns yellow or brown, it will not recover. Focus on protecting the new growth.
Are spider mites common on spruce?: Yes, they are very common, especially in hot and dry weather. They thrive when the tree is already stressed by lack of water.

Guides to these causes

Dehydration

Why are my Norway spruce needles turning yellow?