Health Protection, Southern Region
BROWN SPOT NEEDLE BLIGHT,
caused by Scirrhia acicola
Importance. - Longleaf pine is the only species in the South that is damaged by this disease. Seedlings are often heavily infected
while in the grass stage and often die after repeated defoliations.
Identifying the Fungus. - Boat-shaped spores are produced in the yellow bands on the needles. Positive identification can be
made by examining the spores under a microscope.
Spots and discoloration caused by the fungus. (Click for detail. JPG 53K)
Identifying the Injury. - Infected needles develop grey-green spots, which later turn brown. Eventually, a yellow band develops
on the needle. The affected area then increases in size, resulting in death of the needle.
Brown spot needle blight on longleaf seedling. (Click for detail. JPG 50K)
Biology. - Spores are released from the fruiting bodies (acervuli) on the needles throughout the year. The spores are splashed
short distances by rain drops. During the winter and early spring, perithecia are produced on dead needles. Spores from these perithecia are responsible
for longer distance spread of the fungus.
Control. - Plant resistant or high-quality seedlings on intensively prepared sites. When seed trees are used, burn in the fall to
destroy diseased needles. Where seedlings are established, burn during the dormant season. Remove seed trees when seedlings are 1 or 2 years
old. Fungicide sprays are effective in controlling this disease in nurseries.