Needle cast fungi
Elytroderma Lophodermella Lophodermium Phaeocryptopus Rhabdocline
Also Known As - Needle blightWhat is Needle cast fungi (Elytroderma, Lophodermella, Lophodermium, Phaeocryptopus, Rhabdocline)?
Common diseases affecting coniferous tree needles include needle-cast fungi (e.g., Elytroderma, Lophodermella, Lophodermium) and needle blight (e.g., Phaeocryptopus, Rhabdocline). These fungi cause discoloration, and defoliation, and weaken the trees. While these diseases can impact needle appearance and health, severe stress or tree mortality is uncommon, but proper monitoring and management practices are still essential.
How does Needle cast fungi (Elytroderma, Lophodermella, Lophodermium, Phaeocryptopus, Rhabdocline) occur?
The spores released by the fruiting bodies of Heterobasidion annosum are carried by the wind and need moisture to germinate. The disease becomes noticeable after wet years because infected needles are not shed until the following year. Only the current season's needles are vulnerable to infection. In a stand of trees, varying levels of infection can be observed, with the disease most prevalent in trees aged 5 to 30 years.
Symptoms
1 - Plant Impact
• Annosus root disease can lead to discoloration, browning, and premature shedding of coniferous tree needles. This reduces photosynthesis, weakens tree vigor, and increases susceptibility to other stresses. • These effects have significant implications for forest health and commercial timber production, particularly in the context of paper pulp productivity.
Solutions
1 - Cultural Care
• Provide appropriate cultural care to encourage vigorous plant growth. This includes regular pruning, removal of dead or diseased branches, and proper tree spacing to prevent overcrowding. • Maintain proper nutrition by fertilizing coniferous trees with suitable nutrients. Conduct a soil test to identify any deficiencies and apply fertilizer accordingly. Ensure adequate sunlight exposure for optimal photosynthesis. • Choose a location with good air circulation for coniferous trees. This helps prevent the buildup of humidity and reduces the risk of fungal infections.
2 - Maintenance and proper Irrigation
• Avoid planting trees too close together, as this can restrict airflow. Sufficient spacing between trees promotes better airflow, reducing the chances of disease development. • Utilize drip irrigation instead of overhead sprinkling to deliver water directly to the tree's root zone. This minimizes leaf wetness and reduces the risk of fungal infections. • Avoid late afternoon or evening irrigation to prevent prolonged leaf wetness overnight. Watering in the early morning allows foliage to dry throughout the day, reducing the risk of disease establishment.
