Fusiform rust

Symptoms

Spindle-shaped swollen galls form on stems and branches of pines and release orange, powdery spores in spring; stem galls on young trees can girdle and kill them, and infected wood is often broken by wind; on oak (the alternate host) small yellow leaf spots appear.

Plants affected

• Loblolly pine

Common questions

How do I recognise Fusiform rust on Loblolly pine?

Spindle-shaped swollen galls form on stems and branches of pines and release orange, powdery spores in spring; stem galls on young trees can girdle and kill them, and infected wood is often broken by wind; on oak (the alternate host) small yellow leaf spots appear.

Do I have to report Fusiform rust?

No. Fusiform rust is not a notifiable organism, so there is nothing to report to an authority. Treat it as a normal garden problem.

How is Fusiform rust treated?

Mainly with biological and cultural measures — removing affected material, changing the conditions that favour it, and treating with agents approved in your country. The exact steps and their timing depend on the plant, the season and where you live: Dr. Phyto works them out in a free diagnosis.