"Redwoods that are affected by saltwater look as if they haven't had enough water, with leaves turning brown and falling off, said Nelda Matheny, president of HortScience. It can also shrink the diameter of the tree."

I didn't know redwoods has leaves. It makes me wonder what HortScience is selling.

Redwoods have leaves -- except they are called "needles" by many. Same difference. Before getting suspicious of someone, it pays to check one's facts.