Michigan State University Extension
Ornamental Plants plus Version 3.0 - 00000009
11/12/99
ABIES DISEASE PROBLEMS
Balsam Fir Needle Rust infects the current season's needles
which turn red and fall in the summer. In July and August
look for yellow needles that have white pustules on the
lower surface. The spores produced by the pustules will
infect ferns. Spores produced on the ferns will reinfect
firs. Mowing the ferns will help reduce the incidence of the
disease.
Armillaria Root Rot kills trees by girdling them at the soil
line. Infected trees will show yellowing then death of the
needles. Other symptoms include patches of resin on the bark
at the root/trunk junction. White fungus patches form under
the bark in the infected area. Stressed trees will be more
susceptible.
Rhizosphaera Needle Blight is a problem on trees that are
stressed or have been planted on unsuitable sites. The
needles droop, become tan or yellow, and develop small,
black fruitbodies on the lower needle surface. Avoid
planting firs in shade or areas where air circulation is
poor.
Related information.
Pesticide Recommendations
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This file was generated from data base ZZ on 01/19/00.
Data base ZZ was last revised on 11/12/99.
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