DiseaseHigh Severity

Pine Pitch Girdle

Cunninghamella meinickella

A soilborne fungal disease that affects pine trees in California, particularly Jeffrey, Monterey, and ponderosa pines. The fungus causes pitch exudation at the root collar and can predispose trees to bark beetle infestation.

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Pine pitch girdle disease showing pitch exudation on pine bark

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Needles fade to whitish green, becoming yellow to brown
Premature needle drop
Yellow pitch exudation on roots and root collars
Copious pitch flow at invasion points
General tree weakness

Potential Damage

Weakened trees become predisposed to bark beetle infestation
Blocked nutrient flow in phloem and xylem
Tree mortality in severe cases

Lifecycle

Infection occurs from germination of small spiny spores that attach to bark. During spring thaws or rains, spores germinate and grow into wounds, entering and invading the phloem and xylem.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Improve tree health through proper nutrition

2

Reduce crowding around affected trees

3

Treat wounds promptly to prevent infection

4

Remove and destroy infected material

5

Fungicide applications for prevention

Recommended Mauget Products

Fungisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against pine pitch girdle.

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Mycoject Ultra

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against pine pitch girdle.

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Need Professional Diagnosis?

Our certified arborists can help you accurately identify tree problems and develop an effective treatment plan using Mauget's proven injection systems.

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