Will Dwarf Alberta Spruce grow new branches?

[sweid]

it's been a hot dry summer and I wasn't able to water my dwarf Alberta spruce as much as Id like. I did a lot of research but still haven't found and answer if this tree will grow new branches where the dead ones were. I know already sometimes the brown branches will regrow buds, this has happened before and they did grow back, however these ones are permanently dead and I'm 95% positive about this. if new branches won't grow what will happen? will the dead area just be bare so I should just cut down the whole tree even if half is still alive? what should I do. also please don't reply they may bud again since this is all I find online and not what happens if the branches do die.
Also, should I spray wilt stop to prevent this for my others?
thank you so much!

 

[Marck]

Spruce trees do not generally resprout on old wood. I think it will take a long time (if ever) for that bare area to fill in.

 

[sweid]

Spruce trees do not generally resprout on old wood. I think it will take a long time (if ever) for that bare area to fill in.

so cut it down then?

 

[Marck]

I suppose so. It won't ever look like the perfect green cone it once was, and it is likely to decline further.

I'm not sure what caused this damage but one possibility is Spruce Spider Mites (Oligonychus ununguis). If so, it is possible that your other trees will also be affected. If there is a mite infestation you can look into chemical control methods but that could be an uphill battle if the trees are not well-adapted to your climate.

I'm not sure where you are located, but Alberta Spruce (Picea glauca) is only well-adapted for regions with long cold winters and short relatively cool summers. Long hot summers and mild winters will eventually weaken the trees.

 

[DrCase]

Cut the dead out of each one and let them grow

 

[sweid]

Ok thank you. I will. But what should I expect?

 

[Silentrunning]

I think those trees are already dead. Most evergreens can maintain the green color for months after they die. The amount of brown material is what leads me to believe that they are dead. I would leave them until next spring to see if there is any new growth but I seriously doubt you will find any.

 

[DrCase]

I found over the years Alberta spruce do not like to be dry for extended periods .