Diplodia Tip Blight
MODERATEDiplodia sapinea
Overview
A common fungal disease of pines, particularly Austrian and Scots pines in landscape settings. Spores infect new shoots as buds open in spring. Repeated infections progressively kill branches from the bottom of the tree upward.
- Type
- Fungus
- Severity
- MODERATE
- Source
- USFS
Symptoms
Stunted new shoots with short, brown needles still in their sheaths, dead shoot tips (candles), resinous cankers on branches, small black fruiting bodies at the base of dead needles, progressive lower-crown dieback
Affected Species
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Fungicide Application at Bud Swell
Copper-based fungicide or thiophanate-methyl applied just before bud break when new candles are emerging. Repeat application 7-10 days later. Timing is critical for effectiveness.
Prune and Destroy Infected Shoots
Remove dead and infected shoots during dry weather to reduce spore sources. Improve tree vigor through proper watering and avoid stress conditions.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Diplodia Tip Blight. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Broad-spectrum protectant for many fungal leaf and bark diseases.
Preventive spray for needle cast, leaf spots, and blights.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Diplodia Tip Blight?
A common fungal disease of pines, particularly Austrian and Scots pines in landscape settings. Spores infect new shoots as buds open in spring. Repeated infections progressively kill branches from the bottom of the tree upward.
What are the symptoms of Diplodia Tip Blight?
Stunted new shoots with short, brown needles still in their sheaths, dead shoot tips (candles), resinous cankers on branches, small black fruiting bodies at the base of dead needles, progressive lower-crown dieback
Where is Diplodia Tip Blight currently found?
Diplodia Tip Blight is currently active in Connecticut, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Wisconsin, West Virginia. It has been reported in 19 total states across the United States.
What plants are affected by Diplodia Tip Blight?
Diplodia Tip Blight affects Ponderosa Pine, Eastern White Pine. Susceptibility varies by species.
How do I treat Diplodia Tip Blight?
Treatment options for Diplodia Tip Blight include: Fungicide Application at Bud Swell, Prune and Destroy Infected Shoots. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.