European oak powdery mildew: Impact on trees, effects of environmental factors, and potential effects of climate change

Abstract

• Context: Powdery mildew is one of the most common diseases of oaks in Europe. After alarming reports in the beginning of the twentieth century following the presumed introduction of the invasive fungus, the disease has become familiar to foresters. However, its impact may vary greatly according to intrinsic and extrinsic factors. • Aims: We aimed at providing updated and synthesised information on the impact of powdery mildew on oak and on the effects of environment on disease. • Methods: A comprehensive literature review was performed, including old reports of the early epidemics to more recent data. • Results: Tree growth patterns are of critical importance to explain the severity of the disease and the differences between juvenile and mature trees. A critical element, especially for infection of mature trees, is the availability of spores during the production of the first leaf flush. High disease impact is often related to modified growth patterns, either by environmental factors (insects or frost) or silvicultural practices (e.g.; coppicing). • Conclusion: Powdery mildew can have important impacts in natural oak regenerations and a significant role in decline of mature trees. Climate change might influence the disease severity mainly by altering the host pathogen phenological synchrony. Process-based models are required for reliable predictions. © 2012 INRA and Springer-Verlag France.