What Can I Spray on Pine Trees to Prevent Disease?

Nothing is more frustrating than to see beautiful pine trees die from diseases and other problems. Fortunately, treatment options are available for many diseases that strike pine trees. Knowing which sprays and other treatment methods are available for pine trees goes a long way toward preserving forests.

Pine trees are struck by a variety of diseases and pests depending on the location of the tree. One of the most common pine tree diseases is Canker disease. Canker disease leaves resin or dark, sticky patches all over the wood of the tree. This disease can be deadly to trees and spreads quickly. Needle cast is another commonly seen pine tree disease. Needle cast starts as dark spots on needles, which turn into reddish rings. The needles die from the ring to the tip. If needle cast is not stopped, the tree will slowly die. Blister rust is a fungus that attacks pine trees from gooseberry and currant bushes. The rust needs both plants to grow on the pine trees. Pine root rot is caused by a disease that attacks the roots of pine trees. The needles appear brown at the top of the tree, and the trees often fall down in high winds. Pine wilt is caused by a small beetle that attacks the trees by breeding and choking the plant. The trees turn brown and die.

Different sprays can be used to prevent some pine diseases, but not all diseases that attack pine trees can be combated with fungal or other treatment sprays. A copper fungicide spray is one method that can be applied to prevent needle cast. Other fungicides that can be used are chlorothalonil and mancozeb. These fungicides can also be used to treat pine blight. Make sure to check with local and government requirements for pine sprays before spraying onto pine trees. Many pine tree sprays are registered for use only on certain kinds of pine trees.

Often the most effective form of disease reduction is to remove the offending branches or trees and burn them. Do not plant pine trees near currant bushes or other berry bushes. Make sure to keep pine roots as dry as possible and try to prevent the trees from sitting in water for long periods of time. Using a nitrogen-based fertilizer on the pine trees yearly will also help prevent disease.