Phenological characteristics of continental mistletoe (Loranthus europaeus Jacq.) for its temporal control management

Understanding the phenological characteristics of the semi-parasitic continental mistletoe (Loranthus europaeus Jacq.) is an essential step for a timely control management of its expansion. To this aim, a portion of oak stands of the southern slope of the Manesht mountain located in Hyanan region in the North East of Ilam was investigated. Three test sites located in altitudes of 1800-1600, 2000-1800 and 2200-2000 m above sea level were considered, in each of which five mistletoe-infested Persian oak trees were selected. The phenological traits were monitored over five years. The results showed that phenological traits are affected by elevation, i.e. the phenological events at lower altitudes occur a few days earlier than the higher elevations. In addition, the appearance time of phenological events was different during successive years. According to the results of our phenological analysis at different altitudes and in different years, it is concluded that the optimal time span for removing mistletoe is prior to its fruit ripening until August. In order to avoid the problems of collecting and dispersing of mistletoes seeds, we can remove the mistletoes on the Brant`s oak trees before the ripening of fruits in the proper time of cutting.