[cutntrim]

I planted 80' of hedgerow using black cedars (thuja occidentalis nigra) a couple summers ago and the customer was asking what the little brown "buds" are on the plants. They're unattractive and make the plants look like they suffered winter damage, but on close inspection the foliage is green and healthy. I've seen green buds from new growth on cedars but not brown. Anyone know why they've got these brown buds on them?

[Mark Oomkes]

Not sure what the technical term is, but those would be the cones or seed pods. Seeing it's a conifer, I think they would be cones, but I've been wrong a couple million times before.

[trees]

Yep, they're reproductive organs.....

[cutntrim]

Well, theyr'e ugly whatever they are...

[Fine Edge]

Please don't cut their organs off!!

[Mark Oomkes]

Boy, did this thread go downhill.

[cutntrim]

I'm sure the homeowner will be asking why I'm wincing next time I see her plucking off the organs (cones) by hand!