Eastern White Pine Has Brown Plate Fungus Near Base Of Trunk And Mostly Dead Branches From Bottom Up

Question From: K. Henrikson - Chestertown, New York, United States
Q: An eastern white pine growing in the Adirondacks of northern New York has some brown plate fungus growing on the trunk, near the base of the tree. Tree also appears to be leaning a little. it's probaboy 50 ft high. All branches are dead from the ground up. I can't tell from the ground if there are live branches at the top, but I think there are. What is the fungus and what if anything should we do about it?

A: Katherine, White pines are under siege from a variety of ills. I recommend you have an onsite inspection from a certified arborist, a trained tree doctor. You can find one in your area by calling 800-733-2622 or online at www.tcia.org. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy.