Knowledgebase
Disease, Pest or Something Else? #752285
Asked May 26, 2021, 1:21 PM EDT
Washtenaw County Michigan
Expert Response
Ken, thanks for the question.
After doing some research on this species it appears that the shade is most likely the culprit. This tree is struggling and suffering from possible dothistroma needle cast. USDA plant database says it is intolerant to shade. Although the database indicates it is tolerant of clay soils, good drainage is required. Check out the following links:
- https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PICOC
- https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/catalog/files/project/pdf/em9008.pdf
I hope this is helpful.
Hi,
The last pictures clearly shows scale insects (striped pine scale) . The black is sooty mold growing on the honeydew and feces of the female. Check out the following links for control information:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/soft_scales_of_spruce_and_pine
https://extension.psu.edu/striped-pine-scale
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/striped_pine_or_tortoise_scale