Rhabdocline needle cast (DEPRECATED)

The first symptoms of this fungal infection are many tiny yellow spots on the current season’s needles appearing in late summer or fall. By spring, these spots have expanded and become characteristic dark reddish brown blotches.

Start with sanitation: remove and dispose of affected material as you find it. Thin dense growth to improve air circulation, and redirect irrigation away from foliage. If the condition persists despite cultural adjustments, your local Extension office can help identify the pathogen and recommend targeted treatments.