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Florida 4-H Forest Ecology

Florida 4-H Forest Ecology

Pitch Canker: Identifying Characteristics

Identifying the disease: The most unique and recognized sign of attack is the large flow of pitch around the canker of an infected tree. If the tree's bark around the infected area is removed, resin-soaked wood is exposed. Loss of shoots, crown dieback, dying needles, and stunted growth are also signs of attack.
Susceptible trees: Pitch canker can infect all southern pines. Slash pine is a favorite host. Longleaf and loblolly can also be common hosts.

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