| Will planting currants kill my Tanyosho pines (small flat top tree with 2 needles in a bundle) or my Austrian pines (large trees with two needles in a bundle)? I know it can cause White pines to die. |
| Here in Vermont, there was a time when all of the currants and gooseberrys were uprooted because they serve as an alternate host for the fungus (Cronartium ribicola) that causes White Pine Blister Rust, and there was fear that the disease would wipe out the valuable timber trees. At this point, the disease is under control, and we can grow currants and gooseberries once again. According to Cornell University, Asian and European species of pine are less succeptible than North American, five-needle pines. Make sure the nursery that supplies you with currants guarantees disease-free stock, too. If there's a USDA restriction against currants and gooseberries being grown in or shipped to your state, the supplier will let you know. Enjoy! |
