Norfolk Island Pine crispy branches

A wholly brown, brittle branch will not green up. A tree with a living leader and green branch tips can still grow, though bare lower areas may remain bare.

Remove only dead growth

Cut fully dead branches near the trunk without damaging it. Avoid snapping branches to test them and do not top the central leader.

Check the root ball for a dry center and rewet it slowly if needed, then drain. Move away from heating airflow and give bright light. If branches keep failing over wet mix, inspect roots. New growth will come from surviving growing points, not dead branch wood.