Question of the Week 01/18/2020

Q: I have something growing in my juniper tree that looks greenish brown. What is it? Will it kill my tree?

A: It is called Juniper Mistletoe (Phoradendron juniperinum).

Although it looks ugly, in most cases, it won't kill your tree. This version of mistletoe actually uses photosynthesis instead of stealing nutrients from the tree.

It does, however, steal water from the trees. As long as the trees are getting enough water, it isn't considered a problem (but it can be unsightly). It can be problematic in times of drought and may even kill the tree during extreme drought since it steals water from the tree.

We recommend removing the mistletoe by simply breaking it off at its base.

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