Where does Red Heart/Red Ring Rot primarily attack trees?

Red Heart, also known as Red Ring Rot, primarily attacks the heartwood of conifer trees. This wood decay is caused by specific fungal pathogens that target the inner tissues, leading to significant deterioration. The heartwood, which is the central core of a tree that provides structural support, is particularly vulnerable because it is often less resistant to decay than the outer sapwood.

When the heartwood is compromised, the integrity of the tree is threatened, resulting in weakness and susceptibility to breakage. This type of rot is especially concerning for forest health, timber production, and the overall longevity of coniferous species. Understanding the specific area where Red Heart/Red Ring Rot attacks allows foresters and land managers to implement better management practices and monitoring strategies to protect valuable forest resources.