Trunk rot is the result of a fungal growth, which first exhibits its presence through yellowing or wilted leaves and stunted growth rates, eventually showing fruiting bodies on the exterior of the trunk. When rot has overtaken a tree trunk, you have two basic choices how to proceed: attempt to save the tree, or let it go and purge the disease from the area. The choice you make depends on the severity of damage. It is very difficult to effectively treat rot, and nearly impossible once it has begun to fruit. The majority of treatments focus on helping the tree to regain strength during the early stages of infestation, rather than eliminating the disease. As with most things, prevention is the best medicine. Mulch should be level around the tree trunk rather than piled around it and young trees should have tree guards to protect their trunk from injury and undo moisture from weeds and debris. Treat injuries quickly as they are invitations for fungus to attack.
PROLONGING LIFE
Trees that have had little visible damage may be saved, or at least have their lives extended. Use a trowel to dig out any soil or mulch from around the root crown to eliminate excess moisture.
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Check the tree for anything that may contribute extra stress, such as insect infestations or poor drainage. Eliminate any areas of concern.
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Fertilize with a high-phosphorous fertilizer to promote root growth. A fertilizer with the mixture 0-20-0 or 0-46-0 is best. Apply this by mixing it into the drip-line soil in March and October at a rate of 3 to 5 pounds for each inch of trunk diameter.
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Prune any dead branches or branches with major injuries, as these areas take up extra energy the tree needs to divert to fighting the fungus. Also remove any small branches and tiny offshoots, called suckers, from the lower trunk area.
REMOVING THE OFFENDER
If the fungus has begun to fruit on the outside of the trunk, removal is the safest option. Trees showing extensive rot are susceptible to falling and uprooting, making them a danger. Small trees can be removed with a saw or ax at home, while large ones should be handled by an arborist. In all cases, use a drill with a large bit to break down and remove as much of the trunk and root system as possible. Dispose of all tree parts to avoid transferring the infection.
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Sterilize the area to remove any leftover fungus and bacteria. Plastic sheets provide a cost-effective and natural way to kill unwanted microbes. In late spring or early summer, till the area well, then cover it with 2-mil plastic sheets. Stretch it tightly and either bury the edges or secure them with bricks. Allow this to sit for 8 to 10 weeks, then remove the plastic.
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Plant a new tree, taking into account the best tree for the given environment. Practice preventative measures for the new tree, including level mulch, excellent drainage and trunk shields. SFGATE
GUESS WHAT I FOUND?
2 and one half billion news articles about lawsuits involving huge bucks for injuries due to rotted trees falling on innocent, unsuspecting people.
