Is it brown and out for my new conifer?

Why is my newly-planted conifer turning brown? James, by email DAVID: Conifers go brown for a range of reasons, including not enough light or exposure to cold winds. But given the summer we’re having, I’d say dehydration is most likely.

If the brown patches are insignificant, you may be able to rescue it by watering once or twice a week from now on. If that doesn’t do it, I’m afraid you’re looking at replacing it.