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Experts share why Iowa’s evergreens are turning brown

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Talk of Iowa, hosted by Charity Nebbe

Iowa weather conditions and common disease pose challenges for conifer trees.

Many of Iowa’s conifers are turning brown. Talk of Iowa host Charity Nebbe is joined by Aaron Steil and Mark Vitosh to unpack how Iowa’s climate presents challenges for evergreen trees. The horticulture experts say trees need plenty of water in their first years to develop a root system that is resilient in dry soil conditions. They also share the importance of drainage on a planting site and recommend different types of evergreens. And listeners call in to troubleshoot tree issues on their property.

Guests

  • Aaron Steil, extension horticulture specialist at Iowa State University
  • Mark Vitosh, Department of Natural Resources forester
Tags
Talk of Iowa Hort DayHorticultureTrees
Charity Nebbe is IPR's 'Talk of Iowa' host. She also hosts IPR's podcasts 'Garden Variety' and 'Unsettled'. Since 2010, Nebbe has interviewed, conversed with, and shared ideas from guests of all backgrounds and locations, and has helped listeners better understand, appreciate, and explore their state and the world around them. Nebbe has a bachelors degree from Iowa State University.
Aaron Steil is a Consumer Horticulture Specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. Aaron contributes his expertise to the Garden Variety podcast and newsletter and to Talk of Iowa's Horticulture Day program.
Caitlin Troutman is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from William Jewell College. Since 2022, Troutman has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.
Natalie Dunlap is an award-winning digital producer and writer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Iowa. Since 2024, Dunlap has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's digital audience.