DiseaseMedium Severity

Kabatina Branch Canker

Kabatina juniperi, Phomopsis juniperovora, Sclerophoma pithyophila (imperfect fungi)

A fungal disease complex affecting young conifers, causing progressive branch dieback and eventual tree death. Most evident in seedlings and transplant beds on trees less than 4 years old. Multiple fungal species work together to girdle conducting tissues.

Peak Season: Most active during cool, cloudy weather with moisture
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Kabatina branch canker showing characteristic branch death and browning

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Tips of branches brown with progressive dieback
Entire branches or trees killed over time
Small, sunken lesions on branches or stems
Trees appear one-sided or flattened
Gray-black spore fruits bordering lesions
Gradual decline and eventual death in older trees
Death caused by girdling of conducting tissues

Potential Damage

Progressive branch dieback from tips inward
Girdling of stems and branches above and below infection point
Disruption of water and nutrient transport
Tree death in severe cases
Most severe on young trees under 4 years
Creates unsightly asymmetrical growth patterns

Lifecycle

Spores produced in thousands within pycnidia and acervuli on diseased twigs. In warm, moist weather, spores ooze out in little tendrils and spread by splashing water, insects, and pruning tools. Entrance through unbroken tissue (Phomopsis) or wounds (Kabatina and Sclerophoma).

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Remove infected branches promptly

2

Avoid overhead irrigation and splashing water

3

Fungicide injection for preventive treatment

4

Prune only during dry weather

5

Improve air circulation around plants

6

Avoid mulches from infected plant material

Recommended Mauget Products

Fungisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against kabatina branch canker.

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Tebuject 16

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against kabatina branch canker.

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