Is there a blue spruce disease going around?

Is there a blue spruce disease going around?

The prevalence of diseases on blue spruce trees has intensified in recent years and trees are declining rapidly in many areas (Photo 1). The key symptom of spruce decline is branch dieback, which progresses over two to four years and renders the plant’s appearance unacceptable for most homeowners (Photo 2).

Are blue spruce trees prone to diseases?

Blue spruce trees are susceptible to an infectious needle disease caused by the fungus Rhizosphaera. The disease, referred to as Rhizosphaera needle cast, is the most common problem seen on blue spruce samples that are submitted to the Plant Disease Clinic.

How do you treat a sick Blue Spruce?

Fungicides with the active ingredient chlorothalonil, copper hydroxide or mancozeb will protect new spruce needles from infection by Rhizosphaera.

1. Make one application in spring or early summer when the new needles have grown to half their mature length.
2. Make a second application 3 to 4 weeks later.

What is a good fertilizer for blue spruce?

Sprinkle 10-10-10 slow-release granulated fertilizer over the soil in the root zone, and hen water with about 2 inches of water to prevent fertilizer burn and incorporate the fertilizer into the water.

Why is my spruce tree dying from the top down?

Pine trees dying from the top down is common, though definitely not a good sign. This condition is referred to as dieback. It may be caused by a number of things, including fungal disease, insect infestation, or harsh weather conditions.

What kind of disease does a blue spruce have?

Answer: Thank you for contacting us regarding your tree issues. Rhizosphaera needle cast (Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii) is a foliar disease of spruce trees. It is most common in trees growing outside of their native range. It starts on the inner and lower growth and progresses upward through the tree.

When to remove infected needles from blue spruce?

Preventive fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil may be applied in spring to protect new growth, but will not cure infected needles. Infected branches can be removed, making sure tools are disinfested between cuts. Severely infected trees should be replaced. For large trees contact a professional arborist.

How long does it take for a blue spruce tree to die?

It can take up to 15 months for the needles to show visible symptoms after the initial infection. Young trees may be killed by this disease, but usually branches die off after 3-4 consecutive years of defoliation, causing trees to look disfigured.

When does fungal disease start on a spruce tree?

Control of fungal disease is difficult because infection extends from spring through autumn, depending on rainfall. Infected branches remain on trees as a source of infection for several years with progression of disease.

Answer: Thank you for contacting us regarding your tree issues. Rhizosphaera needle cast (Rhizosphaera kalkhoffii) is a foliar disease of spruce trees. It is most common in trees growing outside of their native range. It starts on the inner and lower growth and progresses upward through the tree.

Preventive fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil may be applied in spring to protect new growth, but will not cure infected needles. Infected branches can be removed, making sure tools are disinfested between cuts. Severely infected trees should be replaced. For large trees contact a professional arborist.

It can take up to 15 months for the needles to show visible symptoms after the initial infection. Young trees may be killed by this disease, but usually branches die off after 3-4 consecutive years of defoliation, causing trees to look disfigured.

Control of fungal disease is difficult because infection extends from spring through autumn, depending on rainfall. Infected branches remain on trees as a source of infection for several years with progression of disease.