True Fir: Interior needle blight
categories: Conifers Ornamentals True Fir True Fir Diseases
revision date: 2023-02-07 12:00
Biology
Interior needle blight is found primarily on noble fir in Christmas tree plantings, but may also occur in the landscape. While a fungus has been associated with the disease, other factors may also be involved. Needles on the lower branches turn brown, but remain attached to the branches. Affected needles are dropped by spring, resulting in minor to severe defoliation. Affected Christmas trees may be unmarketable, but damage to landscape trees is most likely only aesthetic unless the problem becomes very severe.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Provide proper culture. Healthy trees are more resistant to stress and disease.
- Clear weeds from around trees, and maintain good air circulation in plantings. This reduces many fungal infections, and may be useful.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended