Sphaeropsis blight of pine is thriving because of the early season extended wet weather. (Refer to issue no. 4.) It is too late to spray fungicides to help the tree this year, but we have suggested pruning out dead stem tips in dry weather. Now is a good time to take care of that problem. Infection occurs in the spring, but getting rid of inoculum now will reduce infection later. Often we wait until spring to do this pruning, and infection has already occurred. There is less chance of spreading the fungus in hot, dry weather. Rake up fallen needles and cones if possible. If you can't do this now, mark your calendar to do this task in the fall.