mature white pine trees turning brown - Ask Extension
Hello. I read that there is a fungus that is caused by black currant and gooseberry plants that can kill white pine trees. Is that common in Vermont, ...
Knowledgebase
mature white pine trees turning brown #871808
Asked June 05, 2024, 7:57 PM EDT
Hello. I read that there is a fungus that is caused by black currant and gooseberry plants that can kill white pine trees. Is that common in Vermont, or could there be another reason that my white pine trees are are dying? Thanks so much
Iris Banks
Chittenden County Vermont
Expert Response
Hello Iris,
You are correct that fungus from currents and gooseberry plants can affect white pines in a negative way and you are also correct in observing that white pines in our area are having trouble with yellowing and dying needles. It is difficult to assume that there is a correlation in the cases that are in front of us. I'm attaching articles for you to read to broaden your understanding.
Following is an article from Ohio State detailing the problem you are noting about the correlation of white pine problems and currents and gooseberries. Notice that certain varieties of the berries are banned and others are resistant.
https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-3205
I'm also attaching a helpful article about white pine history and current problems. An article about currants and gooseberries and which are resistant to the fungus. Also, a survey that was conducted in the Northeast.
Thank you for your question and I am grateful that there are many eyes on the issue you raise and I am hopeful a solution can be found that will be helpful to this valuable tree.
You are correct that fungus from currents and gooseberry plants can affect white pines in a negative way and you are also correct in observing that white pines in our area are having trouble with yellowing and dying needles. It is difficult to assume that there is a correlation in the cases that are in front of us. I'm attaching articles for you to read to broaden your understanding.
Following is an article from Ohio State detailing the problem you are noting about the correlation of white pine problems and currents and gooseberries. Notice that certain varieties of the berries are banned and others are resistant.
https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/HYG-3205
I'm also attaching a helpful article about white pine history and current problems. An article about currants and gooseberries and which are resistant to the fungus. Also, a survey that was conducted in the Northeast.
Thank you for your question and I am grateful that there are many eyes on the issue you raise and I am hopeful a solution can be found that will be helpful to this valuable tree.
