Spruce disorder found in Illinois
URBANA, Ill. — University of Illinois plant experts say an illness that causes spruce trees to drop their needles has been found for the first time in Illinois.
The university's plant clinic says Sudden Needle Drop has been found in trees in central and northeastern Illinois. It has previously been found in neighboring states.
Clinic director Suzanne Bissonnette says the disorder known as SNEED is caused by a fungus and causes all of the needles on affected branches to fall off except the newest needles on branch tips. Early symptoms include yellowing or brown needles and small black fungus structures on affected twigs.
Bissonnette said there aren't many known ways to treat the disease. Fungicides may provide some control.
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