Why did my Dwarf Alberta Spruce die suddenly?

Question

My Dwarf Alberta Spruce that had been doing great for the past 9 years died rather suddenly. I would like to know what could have caused this and also if I can safely plant something in the space the spruce was in? I have noticed a lot of evidence of moles in the area.

Answer 1

It would be hard to say what killed it without knowing what kind of symptoms it had. But, if you are seeing increased mole activity in the area, there may be a pest attacking the roots. Moles do not eat the roots of plants, but they do eat the pests that may do this. Check the area for grubs and also check the roots of the plant for damage. This will indicate if the plant was killed by pests pr not.

It is likely fine to plant something else there. As a precaution, treat the soil with a pesticide to kill anything that may have attacked the roots of the plant.