Fungus such as mushrooms, conks, and other fruiting bodies are never a good sight to see near one of your valued trees. The presence of these different fungi can indicate a larger problem on the inside of the tree such as root rot or generalized wood decay.

What is Ganoderma root rot & how can I identify it?

Ganoderma is a particular type of fungus that infects your trees through open wounds. Open wounds from spike holes, lightening, lawn maintenance equipment or nails in the tree could all make it susceptible to this specific fungi. Ganoderma can easily be spread by not properly sanitizing your landscape tools such as loppers or hand trimmers.

The symptoms of Ganoderma root rot are similar to any other issue occurring on the interior of the tree and include:

• Dead branches

• Yellow leaves

• Leaf drop

• Small leaves

• Presence of fungi around the base or the trunk

There could be a variety of other symptoms occurring that will indicate an issue with your trees. This is why it is important to have your trees regularly inspected by an ISA certified Arborist.

Will Ganoderma root rot kill my tree?

Once your tree has become infected with this specific type of fungi, unfortunately, there is no way to stop it. Preventative measures always work best when it comes to fungi. A couple steps to ensure your trees will be safe from root rot are:

*Make sure your trees are inspected regularly by an Arborist

*Be careful not to cause damage to the cambium (outer) layer of your trees when using lawn equipment

*Never drill into trees unless consulted with an Arborist first

*Call your local Arborist at the first sign of decay, open wounds or pest

If you are concerned about root rot in any of your trees on your property, click the link below to be connected to an ISA certified Arborist today!

Call An Arborist!