Eastern Red Cedar Trees Are Turning Brown

Identification

• Kabatina tip blight infects trees during February and March, and is caused by Kabatina juniperi. The symptoms are most pronounced on younger trees. The fungus infects trees in all stages of growth.

Damage

• Affected tree branch tips initially turn dull colored and gradually yellow. Black, fungal fruiting bodies are visible in discolored areas. Foliage eventually turns completely brown and starts to drop in early summer. Kabatina tip blight rarely extends to the branches, and does not lead to severe branch dieback.

Management

• Use disease-resistant tree varieties, and buy healthy plants from reliable nurseries. Avoid excessive use of fertilizers, and try not to wound trees unnecessarily in spring and fall. Chemical control options include the use of copper-based fungicides and mancozeb.