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Tree Fungus Treatments

blotted leaves on a tree in need of Tree Fungus Treatment services

Tree fungus is one of the more common afflictions homeowners might face in caring for their trees’ health. If ignored, tree fungus can cause serious problems. Tree fungus treatment services can be a lifesaving intervention when applied correctly and at the right time. Many different fungicide treatments and applications are available on the market today.

It is vital to figure out what species of tree you are trying to help, what fungus is affecting the tree, and how advanced the fungus is. Those three factors will aid in deciding which tree fungus treatment services can be employed to improve the health of your trees. Reach out to Prestige Tree Experts at 240.281.3334 to learn more about chemical application treatment and other fungus treatments.

What Is Tree Fungus?

Tree fungus is a type of fungal infection that can occur in trees. It develops when microscopic spores of fungi are present in the environment and come into contact with the tree’s bark, where they latch on and begin to grow. Many different types of fungi can cause a fungi outbreak, such as Armillaria mellea and Fomes fomentarius.

Fungus typically begins to show up as a discolored or spotted area appearing on the tree bark and can range from white to black in color. As it progresses, it may spread across the entire trunk of the tree, creating an ugly sight that can affect the aesthetic beauty of your property.

Types of Maryland Tree Fungus

Four common varieties of tree fungus are found in Maryland. They are:

  • Vascular wilt fungus – Vascular wilt fungus disrupts a tree’s ability to transport water through its xylem, resulting in leaf and stem wilt.
  • Foliar or shoot fungus – Foliar or shoot fungus is the most common yet least harmful. It creates spots or other visible infection marks but is not ultimately endangering the tree. Many homeowners still prefer to treat foliar or shoot fungus as it can be an eyesore, especially on prominent trees or ornamentals.
  • Root or butt rot – Root or butt rot is a type of fungus that attacks a tree’s roots and trunk. This is one of the more serious infections since it can cause structural damage that can become irreversible if not treated promptly. It is also one of the more insidious fungi, as it sometimes goes unnoticed until the damage becomes untreatable.
  • Canker diseases – Lastly, canker diseases are generally the result of tree damage, such as a trunk wound or a broken branch. It may cause discoloration on the bark or a branch. This fungus doesn’t pose much of a threat to a tree’s health beyond a visible eyesore, though serious canker diseases may threaten a tree’s structural integrity. Homeowners can largely avoid canker diseases by practicing proper pruning.

Recognizing and treating these fungal outbreaks early can save your trees and keep them healthy for the future. Ignoring the problem can cause irreversible damage that may require the removal of the tree. Find the right fungus treatment for your trees to keep them healthy for years to come.

Tree Fungus Treatment Services

There is a tree fungus treatment for every common fungal infection. Remember that fungicides are only one element of an overall tree healthcare regimen. Certainly, fungicide applications help kill the annoying fungus. But they are just one intervention alongside proper pruning, clearing dead and broken branches, watering, fertilizing, and mulching around the base of your trees. The best methods are often preventative, especially considering some tree fungi are contagious and will not contain themselves to their tree of origin.

When a fungicide application becomes necessary, you can turn to one of three treatment options: organic treatment, chemical treatment, and mechanical treatment.

Organic Fungicides

Organic treatment involves using a fungicide spray, sealer, or dressing to prevent fungus growth. One example is lime sulfur, which can be applied at the first sign of fungus to prevent spreading. Another option is a baking soda mixture that is effective in combating the visible decay from foliar or shoot fungus.

Chemical Fungicide Treatments

Several different chemical fungicides work on trees, so choosing the right one can be tricky. Many chemical fungicides are designed for specific tree diseases; thus, an incorrect application may not be effective or even worsen matters. If you decide to use a chemical fungicide, it is crucial that you consult with a professional arborist first to determine the best product for your situation.

Chemical treatments come in two varieties: contact and surface.

Contact Treatment

Contact chemical treatments get applied to leaves and foliage to prevent or halt an infection. A professional arborist can identify the source of infection and determine which fungicides are best for your situation.

Surface Treatment

Surface treatments are applied directly to the surface of a tree, such as the trunk, branches, or bark, to prevent fungal growth. These treatments help protect trees from disease-causing organisms by providing a barrier between the fungus and the tree. Notably, surface fungicide applications are not recommended for fruit-bearing trees.

Mechanically Treating Tree Fungus

Lastly, mechanical treatments refer to physical alterations to the tree’s environment or the tree itself. For example, preventing tree fungus relies on quality air circulation, adequate sunshine, and proper drainage. If the fungus does set in, removing affected leaves early and disposing of them properly can stop the fungus from spreading. It can also be advisable to dig up and eliminate trees that have become heavily infected. Never shred or grind up infected trees to use elsewhere for mulching. That will only spread the fungus.

Tree Fungus Treatment from Prestige Tree Experts

If your trees show signs of a fungal infestation, seek the help of professional arborists. At Prestige Tree Experts, our ISA Certified Arborists can diagnose the specific problem and provide tailored solutions to stop the spread of tree diseases and fungi. We will assess your home or business’s landscape and recommend a fungicide treatment plan specific to your needs.

Contact Prestige Tree Experts at 240.281.3334 today to schedule a free tree healthcare consultation.