Don McQuilliams
ArboristSite Lurker
I have a client that has 10-12 various species of pine trees within the Seattle area that are showing signs of needle cast. These trees are all in a row next to each other and are about 80-100 feet tall. I have done some research and believe it is Elytroderma Needle Cast casued by the fungus, Elytroderma deformans. (see picture)
I was planning on having the infected areas pruned out as well as conducting some vertical mulching of the trees. I am a little hesitant to do vertical mulching as I may cause additional damage by trenching around the root systems. I could prescribe the use of a air spade but I doubt the client would pay for that.
In addition, I was planning on removing the turf for about 12 feet around each tree and adding about 2 inches of black compost to boost the nutrient levels in the ground.
I am wondering about some ideas for conducting the vertical mulching as well as the use of the compost. Should I do this, or just recommend the pruning with follow up pruning next year? Any input would be appreciated. -Thanks
I was planning on having the infected areas pruned out as well as conducting some vertical mulching of the trees. I am a little hesitant to do vertical mulching as I may cause additional damage by trenching around the root systems. I could prescribe the use of a air spade but I doubt the client would pay for that.
In addition, I was planning on removing the turf for about 12 feet around each tree and adding about 2 inches of black compost to boost the nutrient levels in the ground.
I am wondering about some ideas for conducting the vertical mulching as well as the use of the compost. Should I do this, or just recommend the pruning with follow up pruning next year? Any input would be appreciated. -Thanks