Can Pacific Yew Trees Survive In Hot Sun?

Question

I live inn zone 3 and I planted 2 Pacific Yew trees in my backyard, which gets full afternoon sun. Not long after planting, the needles began turning brown, but I don’t think the trees are dead. They still have pliable branches. They have now been through a full winter, and still look the same. What do you think is going on, and what should I do?

Answer 1

I show you are in Canada's zone 4a. These trees are supposed to do well in sun or shade, however, they can tolerate dense shade, which makes me think your trees are exposed to too much sun. They are typically an understory tree in its natural forests.

You might consider moving them where they get some afternoon shade, if possible.

https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/taxus-brevifolia

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/yew/growing-yew-shrubs.htm