The spruce is known and loved as a Christmas tree, but is also often mentioned in connection with forest dieback. The bark beetle is often blamed for this death, but the large monocultures in the forests are also to blame.

In the case of red rot, the spruce dies from the inside

A healthy spruce that is well cared for in a suitable location rarely suffers from pests and usually remains healthy and resilient for many years. However, a lack of nutrients and/or a lack of moisture can weaken the spruce just as much as waterlogging, making it easy for pathogens to play with the tree.

What diseases can occur in a spruce?

Two diseases in particular are relatively common in spruce: Omorika dieback and red rot. However, the Omorika dieback does not only affect the Serbian spruce (bot. Picea omorika), as the name suggests, but also other species, but mainly young trees.

The red rot can usually only be recognized very late, since the fungus spreads from the inside. Heterobasidion annosum, the root fungus is responsible for this disease. The spruce becomes rotten from the core and eventually dies off completely.

Does a spruce often suffer from pests?

The most common pest found on spruce is probably the bark beetle, but the Sitka spruce aphid also often causes problems for the conifers. The needles turn brown before falling off. The spruce gall aphid can be kept under control with the help of beneficial insects.

Can a sick spruce be saved?

Saving a sick spruce is practically possible only at the initial stage. Since many symptoms are quite inconspicuous at the beginning, it is often too late for relief measures. In addition, some means of controlling pests or fungal infections are harmful to the environment. Its use should therefore be carefully considered. However, as long as home remedies promise good results, you should use them.

Possible diseases and pests in spruce:

  • bark beetle
  • spruce gall aphid
  • Omorika dying
  • red rot
  • Sitka spruce aphid

tips

If you discover a pest infestation or symptoms of disease on your spruce, then you should act immediately, otherwise the tree can no longer be saved.

Category:

Trees