Needlecast of Spruce

Identification

  • On Colorado blue spruce and other spruces.
  • Caused by Rhizosphaera and other fungal pathogens.
  • Mostly in eastern Nebraska.
  • Needles turn reddish brown and develop rows of tiny black dots visible under magnification.
  • Mostly on older needles, needles low on the tree and needles in shaded areas of the tree.

Control

Spray with chlorothalonil (Fung-onil, Daconil, Bravo) or Bordeaux mixture* when new shoots are 1/2 to 2 inches in length (May) and every 3 to 4 weeks if frequent rains occur.