The risk decreases to 30 to 40 percent probability on moderate hazard soils. Thinned stands on low hazard soils have a 10 to 20 percent probability of severe loss. Management Strategies Southern pine plantations and natural stands that are located on low hazard soil, and are free from annosum root rot, do not need to be managed for the disease. Stands located on medium to high hazard sites and stands of eastern white pine should be managed for the disease. All high value stands, including orchards, seed production, and recreation areas, also need to be managed for annosum root rot.
Stump treatment is the primary method to control annosum root rot in a partially cut stand.
The only stump treatment currently available to managers is borax. Borax is used to prevent infection and must be applied to the stump surface immediately after the tree is cut. Once annosum root rot is established in a stand, borax may not be a suitable treatment. Foresters will need to consult with a plant pathologist to determine the appropriate management response for infected stands. Stump treatment is not necessary if a stand is clearcut.