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Pine Tree Fungus? #875197

Asked June 29, 2024, 8:33 AM EDT

Recently, a lot of my pine trees (maybe Virginia Pine or Loblolly?) developed what appears to be a white fungus at the base. (Photos attached) The affected trees are all clustered together and I have many other pine on my property that don't have this issue. It feels like something I should be concerned about.  One tree, which seems to be dying based on the lack of needles at the top, has the white blemishes higher up on its trunk as well. The fungus appeared very suddenly.  What's going on with my trees? Located in Midlothian near the Amelia County line.

Chesterfield County Virginia

Expert Response

Hi Lisa, 

I have forwarded these images to the VDOF Forest Health folks. I'll let you know what I find out. 

Sincerely, 
Jennifer
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 01, 2024, 11:22 AM EDT
Well, turns out my two forest health contacts are on leave this week. I hope to have an answer for you by the end of next week. Another option for you is to contact your county forester and have them take a look. This service is free of charge. 

In Chesterfield County, your forester is:

Richard D. Reuse
Title: Area Forester
Email: <personal data hidden>
Primary Phone: <personal data hidden>

Jennifer
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 01, 2024, 11:28 AM EDT

Thanks, Jennifer!  I'll reach out to Richard to see if I can get an earlier response.

The Question Asker Replied July 01, 2024, 3:14 PM EDT
According to our forest health expert:

"Based on the pictures, it appears to be white rot, which is a decay fungus. There isn’t much this homeowner will be able to do except remove the tree. At this stage, it is most likely that the tree is rotting on the inside."

Was Rich able to get out to take a look?

I'm going to close this ticket out. Feel free to contact me directly using my e-mail <personal data hidden>. Saves this intermediate step.
An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 11, 2024, 1:17 PM EDT

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