Pine Tree Sap Wound or Disease?

Question: This pine tree I have has white on the branches and appears to be dripping sap, but it has no wounds that I know of that would cause this. Is there a disease or something else that would cause this problem?  How can the tree be healed?

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 06, 2023, 10:18 AM EDT
response: It is difficult to tell what is going on from these photos alone. Would you be able to send us additional images showing the whole tree, the base of the tree, and the area where you are seeing the sap? It would help to see symptoms in better lighting too, if possible.   Have there been any changes in recent years around the root zone of the tree (construction)? Is the tree in a location where it receives regular irrigation? Any information you can provide about the tree's history and care can be helpful.  Christa

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 13, 2023, 9:09 PM EDT
response: Here are two photos of the tree trunk  On Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at 10:18:58 AM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 13, 2023, 9:09 PM EDT
response: Photos of the entire tree from two different angles.  On Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at 10:18:58 AM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 13, 2023, 9:09 PM EDT
response: Hi, It has taken me a week to load the photos onto my computer.  To be sure you get them, I will send them in sets of two.  There are two of the entire tree from two different angles, one of sap on needles, and four of the trunk from various angles. The tree is about 30 years old. My son got it when it was very small. Actually, my husband had him plant the tree there because he was hoping it would not last. So, its survival is nice. About four years ago, our neighbor put in a gravel walkway for his airbnb right next to the fence. The tree also has a poison ivy vine growing on it that we killed about seven years ago.   Thank you.Joanna

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 13, 2023, 9:20 PM EDT
response: photo of the sap - I cut most of the other small branches with sap off the tree.  Thank you so much for looking at these and trying to figure this out. I really would like to save the tree. Joanna

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 13, 2023, 9:20 PM EDT
response: Two other photos of the tree trunk  On Tuesday, June 6, 2023 at 10:18:58 AM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 14, 2023, 12:03 PM EDT
response: Hello Joanna,  Thank you for the photos. The pine appears to be in good condition and we don't see any concerning symptoms, so the sap flow might have been a short-term reaction to stress or minor branch/twig damage from wildlife. Given the size and age of the tree, we suggest you consult with a certified arborist if you have concerns about the tree's health, as they can help assess a tree in-person for indications of pests, diseases, and injuries, plus look for potential sources of tree stress (a source of excess water, soil compaction, etc.) that can make them more vulnerable to secondary problems. Arborists can't always treat trees for every ailment because most pesticides will not cure an existing issue, but if caught early, some ailments can be addressed so they don't weaken a tree too much. Some arborists work for tree-care companies but others consult independently if you are wary of someone recommending costly or unnecessary treatments.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 14, 2023, 3:32 PM EDT
response: Thank you.This is very helpful!Joanna  On Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at 12:03:09 PM EDT, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 14, 2023, 3:40 PM EDT
response: You're welcome.