It looks like inconsistent watering to me. Your tree is too close to the building where it is drier than further out. Cryptomeria are genetically set up for summer monsoon rains. It's also too close for how large it will get.

Mike

At least those are old needles yellowing; you have the opportunity to get this right. Your summer humidity is what it wants. It's native to Japan -read up about it and try to duplicate its environment.

Thank you for your comments. I will water more.

I thought that since it had been planted four years ago, that it would have been established by now.

i dont water 4 year established plants ...

and if i were you .. i would not be reinvesting in more crypto's ....i only bang my head on the wall so long.. before i give up on a certain breed of plant ...

also ... its awful close to the house.. there might be an upside if it fails ...

ken

"The plant gets a lot of sun throughout the day, over 8 hours, and
because it is in front of the house, is somewhat protected, (although
supposedly, they are very hardy and do not need any)."

Any advice?

Thank you,

Herman

Herman, It's probably on the leeward side of that building and not getting as much water as it needs. It's being protected from the rain. Yes, it's perfectly cold hardy in New Jersey. It would benefit greatly with some extra summer water......or move it.

Mike

'Black Dragon' will never get that huge - maybe 10' by 10' over an extended period of time - so I am of the opinion that placement is a non-issue in this instance :-) And it should be noted that crypts are not at all very drought tolerant- most sources say to water regularly during dry periods, even after establishment. Even in my often moist climate and to which crypts are extremely well suited :-)

I don't think the plant is too far gone yet but a couple of deep soakings before fall and winter rains hit in earnest would not go amiss!