Eastern Red Cedar Annosus Root Rot: Forestry Commission Diagnosis Needed

50-ft eastern red cedar (16-20" DBH) dying: sparse yellow foliage. House built 100 ft above. Pine thicket cleared around it. Asks diagnosis/treatment in West Central Alabama.

Expert Diagnosis

Annosus root rot. Cedar highly susceptible. Fungal spores land on fresh stumps → enter roots → root grafts spread to living trees. Conks may appear at base. Slowly rots roots → yellowing/death.

Action Required

• Call Alabama Forestry Commission local office for forester visit
• Steve retired from AFC 5 years ago—mention his referral
• No real control once established
• Try 10-10-10 at 1 lb/inch DBH before rain

Key Insight

Land clearing (stump creation) adjacent to valuable trees triggers Annosus. Professional forestry diagnosis essential. Prevention (stump treatment during clearing) is the only effective strategy.