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Sick Pine Trees #791151

Asked May 16, 2022, 8:02 PM EDT

Hello, We have 6 pine trees that are having needle drop. These pine trees are over 20 years old and different varieties. We just noticed this spring that the inside needles are missing and the trees look dead from the bottom moving up. I did a little research and think maybe it could be fungal. I hope it is not Rhizosphaera needle cast, but just to make sure is there a place to take a small branch to be looked at by someone or could I have a professional visit the property located near Swanton? I also don't think it can be a water issue as we have never had any issues before.

Fulton County Ohio

Expert Response

Based on the photos you have shared, your trees look like they may be dying - and fungal disease may be the culprit.  It appears that at least one of them is a spruce tree.  I recommend you contact either the Fulton County Extension Office in Wauseon<personal data hidden>, or the Lucas County Extension Office in Toledo<personal data hidden> depending on which county your property is located in.  If you get confirmation that they are diseased, you may want to remove the trees.  They can be treated, but usually they will continue to gradually decline even with treatment.  The links below describe some of the various fungal diseases, including the Rhizospaheara needle cast that you've already researched.  
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/rhizosphaera-needle-cast/
https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/stigmina-needle-cast
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/cytospora-canker
https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/plpath-tree-03
An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 16, 2022, 10:41 PM EDT

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