About daño foliar del pino (DFP)
Daño foliar del pino is caused by a water mould. It emerged in Chile in 2004. Within 3 years, it had spread to 60,000 hectares of radiata pine plantations, becoming the worst pine pest in Chile.
Global distribution of DFP
Why this is a problem for New Zealand
New Zealand's climate is similar to Chile's so Phytophthora pinifolia could establish here and cause DFP. It could cause damage to our forestry industry, which is made up of mostly radiata pine.
While it doesn't kill many trees, it causes defoliation over large areas and can weaken the trees and reduce growth rates.
How it could get here
The water mould could arrive in wet soil. If you've been to Chile, make sure your shoes and boots are clean before travelling back to New Zealand.
Infected pine plant material could also bring DFP into New Zealand. Biosecurity New Zealand has strict measures in place to limit the chances of Phytophthora pinifolia making it through the border.
How to identify daño foliar del pino
Pine needles redden and die, turning grey, and begin to fall off. Trees can lose nearly all of their needles.
If you notice dramatic dieback in your pine plantation:
- photograph it
- note the location and any landmarks
- call 0800 80 99 66
Note: This information is a summary of this disease's global distribution and potential impacts to New Zealand.
