A review of biology, epidemiology and management of Cronartium pini with emphasis on Northern Europe

Severe outbreaks of Scots pine blister rust, caused by Cronartium pini (Willd.) Jorst., have occurred in several regions in Europe and Asia for at least hundred years. The rust fungus has a complex biology and epidemiology with two different life-cycle forms and five different spore stages. This review summarizes research on: taxonomy and host species, geographical distribution and historic epidemics, life-cycle forms and spore stages, population structure, infection and lesion development, susceptibility of pine provenances, impact of environmental conditions, climate change effects and management. The focus is on conditions in Northern Europe.