A review of biology, epidemiology and management of <i>Cronartium pini</i> with emphasis on Northern Europe

Severe outbreaks of Scots pine blister rust, caused by Cronartium pini (Willd.) Jørst., have occurred in several regions Europe and Asia for at least hundred years. The rust fungus has a complex biology epidemiology with two different life-cycle forms five spore stages. This review summarizes research on: taxonomy host species, geographical distribution historic epidemics, stages, population structure, infection lesion development, susceptibility provenances, impact environmental conditions, climate change effects management. focus is on conditions Northern Europe.