The part of the tree beyond the canker dies if the canker extends around the trunk. Control has been successful where all Ribes within 900 feet of white pines have been removed. The European black currant and gooseberry are more susceptible than the ordinary red currant which may be planted not closer than 400 feet from white pine. The ban on planting Ribes in Connecticut has now been removed although importation and planting of Ribes are still banned in many New England states. Pitch canker, Fusarium lateritium .
Infection occurs through wounds from insect activities, weather damage, and mechanical injuries.
Infected tissues have excessive resin flow associated with sunken, discolored lesions which girdle twigs, branches, and trunks. The diseased bark appears dark red and the wood underneath is also discolored. Shoot and branch dieback is usually most obvious from late autumn to early spring. Needles may be glued together from excessive resin. Control requires sanitary and cultural methods.