White Pine Blister Rust
- Subject: White Pine Blister Rust
- From: Bobbi Diehl d*@INDIANA.EDU
- Date: Sun, 29 Dec 2002 11:18:33 -0500
I am interested in growing some varieties of Currant and Gooseberry
(apparently these are all OK in shady spots). I keep reading warnings that
they may be illegal in areas where White Pine is raised commercially,
because they are alternate hosts to White Pine Blister Rust. After doing
some research, I am confused.
I have a dim understanding that the U.S. native currants are OK, but that
some of the European ones are not. Some indications are that WPBR is
declining; that Ribes species are not responsible; that MOST Ribes species
are OK to plant; and that the laws prohibiting planting Ribes are not
enforced anyway.
Can anyone clear this confusion up for me? In what states is this an
issue? Does anyone know which species and cultivars are immune? Which
species can I plant in Southern Indiana? Would appreciate any and all
comments, including what varieties are best for my area.
Bobbi Diehl
Bloomington, IN
zone 5/6
