Since late spring I have noticed P.sylvestris to be declining -throughout the lower mainland. At first we thought it was due to drought, but one tree in particular did receive fairly regular watering, and still continues to decline. Any thoughts or ideas on this would be appreciated.
Maybe the heat you've had this year? In general, Scots Pine is a cool climate tree. Otherwise, it might be worth getting tests done to see if pine wilt nematode has appeared in the region - this site has brief details of symptoms: http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/hfrr/extensn/problems/pinewilt.htm Can you post some photos?
Thanks Michael. Sorry about yesterday, I had to log off and go and pick someone up at the ferry. I too think heat, but others disagree. The tree of concern is on a slope, with another large pine in behind. I know P.sylvestris has a deep tap root. It has been so dry since May that even with watering, there is no way water could get into the ground.. Surrounding trees would just suck it up. I do the IPM at VanDusen, and need to look at all posibilities. Sorry, have no photos. Marty
