Management of fungal diseases of Platanus under changing climate conditions: Case studies in urban areas

Abstract

Platanus species, especially Platanus × hispanica (London plane), play a key role in urban areas due to their ecological, social and aesthetic value. These trees are widely planted along roadsides, in parks and historical gardens, providing shade, reducing air pollution and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of cities all over the world. Known for their resilience to abiotic factors and rapid growth, these trees are vulnerable to pests and diseases, exacerbating urban plant health challenges. While the EU Phytosanitary Regulation aims to control the spread of plant diseases, many pathogens fall outside its scope. Although many of these pathogens are not devastating, they still require continuous management by authorities or private owners. This paper focuses on disease managment guidelines for Ceratocystis platani, the only EU regulated fungal disease affecting plane trees, and other pathogens, Apiognomonia platani, Macrodiplodiopsis desmazieri and Erysiphe platani, which compromise the ecosystem services provided by Platanus trees and impact human health and safety.