Ganoderma Root Rot Treatment for Oak Trees
Ganoderma root rot is a fungal disease that attacks oak and other types of trees. No cultural or chemical treatment is available for a tree infected with Ganoderma, although some maintenance procedures may prevent the disease. Does this Spark an idea?
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Description
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Plate-like fruiting bodies called conks form on the butt and lower trunk of trees infected with Ganoderma root rot. The fruiting bodies emerge as mushrooms from the soil above infected roots. Both have hard, shiny, reddish-purple or reddish-brown tops with creamy white undersides and edges.
Symptoms
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An oak tree infected with Ganoderma root rot may live as along as 30 years. Dying branches with small yellow leaves appear in the crown of the tree and eventually the tree dies.
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How It Spreads
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Ganoderma is a soil-borne fungus that enters trees through open wounds. The disease spreads through root contact, but is not found in the canopy of infected trees.
Preventative Measures
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Select oak trees for your planting conditions. Water regularly and apply fertilizer as recommended. Prune oak trees when they are dormant and dry and avoid injuring trees with mowers, trimmers or other equipment.
Caution
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Trees infected with Ganoderma root rot have weakened structures and are liable to fall during periods of strong winds or extreme rainfall. Remove infected trees located near structures, roads or pathways to prevent damage or injury.
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