Hey guys, determined mallsai rescuer here... so a few weeks ago I saw some tips browning which I attributed to an overwatering mishap due to poor drainage. It wasn't very severe and it didn't seem to be in decline. Lately I've been noticing some yellowing in the stem of a new shoot, and some of those browning tips in different places - researching has got me wondering these aren't signs of stress but that it's needing to be fertilized? What does the community think?

The first photo:
Do not worry at all about the brown needles. The needles that are on the branch are old needles. These die off. That's normal.
The weak tips could be a reason for concern. Do keep monitoring it. It may be a sign of the tree not being too happy. Make sure you give it proper care, as described underthe guidelines for this species. The overal picture of the plant however is not bad, it does still look healthy.

I watch my junipers like a hawk and have wondered this same thing. So thankful to this forum to help us newcomers panic less. I am also a juniper rescuer. I figure as least I'll give them a fighting chance