Norway Spruce

Question

I planted three Norway spruces last year. They have partially defoliated. What could have caused this? I do see some black on the end of the stems. Is that natural? What else should I look for?

Answer 1

It sounds like they may have needle cast. It is a fungus that attacks spruces. This article may help:
https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/cpr/forestry/needle-cast-diseases-of-spruce-diagnosis-and-treatment