Comparative susceptibility of conifers to western hemlock dwarf mistletoe in the cascade mountains of Washington and Oregon

Abstract

A total of 24 mixed conifer stands in Washington and Oregon infested with western hemlock dwarf mistletoe (Arceuthobium tsugense subsp. tsugense) were sampled to compare host susceptibility to this parasitic plant. Temporary circular plots were established around dominant, severely infected western hemlocks (Tsuga heterophylla). Within plots, species, diameter at breast height, and dwarf mistletoe rating (6-class system) were determined for each live tree. More than 5,700 trees were sampled in 275 plots. Based on the incidence of infection, tree species were assigned to host susceptibility classes. Western hemlock is classified as the only principal host of western hemlock dwarf mistletoe. Pacific silver fir (Abies amabilis), noble fir (Abies procera), and mountain hemlock (Tsuga mertensiana) are classified as occasional hosts. Resource managers can use the host susceptibility classifications based on this study for decisions regarding which trees to retain when selectively harvesting mixed conifer stands infested with western hemlock dwarf mistletoe in the Pacific Northwest.