The Forestry Commission is reminding owners of Lawson cypress trees to inspect them regularly following the discovery of a second site in Scotland with Phytophthora lateralis infection of the species.
The latest case in Greenock Cemetery in Inverclyde, west of Glasgow, follows the first confirmation of P lateralis in Britain in Lawson cypress trees at Balloch Castle Country Park on Loch Lomondside in Scotland in November last year.
The fungus-like pathogen had never previously been identified in Britain and the FC is asking Lawson cypress owners to inspect their trees regularly and report any unexplained symptoms of dieback to its Tree Health Diagnostic & Advisory Service.
The 23 affected trees at Greenock Cemetery are being felled and burned on site to limit the spread of the disease.
Dr John Morgan, head of the FC’s plant health service, said the key to containing and controlling the disease was constant vigilance by tree and woodland owners.
“This disease could have serious implications for the ornamental plant industry if it becomes established here,” said Dr Morgan.
Symptoms of P lateralis include the foliage initially appearing a slightly lighter colour than that of healthy trees, then withering and turning reddish-brown. As the infection extends from the roots and root collar up the trunk, tongues of killed inner bark become visible by their darker colour, and the entire trunk can be girdled.
