One of the most important facets of tree care concerns rot. Woody perennials can suffer from numerous types of fungal and bacteria-related decay that often leaves them structurally unsound and unsightly. Since this can spread to healthy trees on your property, the sooner you identify symptoms and contact certified arborists, the more likely you are to contain the infection.

4 Types of Tree Rot You Need to Know About

1. Brown Rot

A type of rot caused by basidiomycotina fungi, brown rot breaks down cellulose and hemicellulose without affecting lignin. It focuses mainly on conifers and stone fruit trees and causes the bark to become dry and brittle while leaving brown spots on fruit.

Control brown rot by removing the fruit from trees at the end of the harvest season and scheduling tree trimming services for the affected branches. Certified arborists may also recommend fungicide sprays.

2. Heart Rot

Injuries, such as gashes in the trunk, allow heart rot fungi in, often resulting in mushroom and conk growth at the place of infection. Several fungal species cause heart rot, including Fistulina hepatica.

It primarily infects cedar, birch, dogwood, maple, and other deciduous trees. Tree care, such as careful pruning, prevents the fungi from taking hold. Also, watch for insect, animal, and storm damage that increases the infection risk.

3. Soft Rot

Both bacterial and fungal infections cause soft rot, which breaks down hemicellulose, cellulose, and lignin in specific areas. It focuses on broadleaf trees with sections of soft, decaying wood. And while soft rot spreads at a slower pace than other fungal and bacterial infections, it still causes severe structural damage without timely tree care. A tree with excessive soft rot must be removed.

4. Root Rot

Armillaria is among the fungi responsible for root rot, an infection that affects ornamental tree and shrub roots. Fungi target older trees and those with damaged root systems, causing mushroom growth on roots and buttresses. Preventive tree care, such as the quick removal of infected stumps and soil sterilization, are the only ways to manage root rot. Any diseased trees call for removal services. 

Work with the certified arborists at Dave & Aaron Stang’s Certified Tree Care to manage these and other rot issues. The second-generation family business serves customers throughout the Greater Cincinnati, OH area, providing a full suite of tree care services that meet ISA standards. All employees have at least three years of experience in the tree care industry. Call (513) 936-9777 today to make an appointment or learn more about their services online. Get the latest care tips on Facebook.