Rhizosphaera Needle Cast

[StephF]

Has anyone else noticed the large number of sitka defoliating this year, from ground upwards, some still have this years flush on tips, but branches now bare, in various stages of loosing needles? seems very bad in North Northumberland and up towards borders most stands and roadside trees seem affected, all ages. Other species do not seem affected, ie Norway. I have wondered if it could be Rhizosphaera? Link to info: https://ag.umass.edu/fact-sheets/rhizosphaera-needle-cast

[StephF]

Spoke with someone from forest research and it is probably spruce aphid. I have to send some samples and photos so will know for definite.

[slack ma girdle]

The block of Sitka next to the larch i am currently clearfelling is all massively defoliated. I have been meaning to look into why, and now i probably know why.

Thankyou