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Cedars dying #315087

Asked April 20, 2016, 10:11 PM EDT

I have read the other postings about cedar trees dying. I am not sure whether I have Port Orford trees or some other variety. In any event, they are dying off in a line one by one. Photos are attached. Anything to be done? I am in the Salem (OR) area and the trees are over 20 years old. Many thanks.

Marion County Oregon

Expert Response

Your cedars do appear to be Port Orford cedar. Unfortunately, it is highly likely that they are afflicted with the root disease Phytophthora lateralis. 100% confirmation of this would require a field inspection or a specimen diagnosis.

Once this disease is present in a group of trees, it is unlikely that any treatments will save the trees. Soil drench fungicides are listed as a possibility for preventing infection of uninfected trees. These can be effective in nurseries and perhaps in highly contained landscape situations. Soil drench fungicides are unlikely to be effective in wider landscapes and there are environmental impacts to be considered with such treatments.

Removal of infected trees and replacement with non-susceptible plants is generally recommended. For more information see http://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/cedar-port-orford-chamaecyparis-lawsoniana-root-rot

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 25, 2016, 2:04 PM EDT

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