Study of Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst) dieback in East Mazandarn plantations

Study on adaptability and productivity of conifer species in different areas of northern forests have been performed by many natural resources researchers and practitioners for the last two decades. In this regard, Picea abies (L) Karsten as a fast growing species have been planted in altitude of over 1000 meters in some of Mazandaran province. Toska Cheshmeh is one of these areas that located in altitude about 1400 meters. The first die back symptoms were detected in 2005 and the present study was initiated during 2008. For evaluation of the disease losses, the trees were measured by full callipering. The result showed severe infestation in the area as 21.93 percent. The infected tree parts were cultured on PDA medium. Pestalotiopsis funerea was isolated and to determine the pathogenicity of the isolated fungus,2-year-old seedlings were inoculated. Management practices should be based on the removal of the dead trees, provide good growing conditions for healthy Norway spruce stands and to keep all the native broadleaf outgrowths in the area.