Tree Fungus Control

Mushrooms growing from trees are signs of infection.

No healthy trees grow mushrooms. Trees can be killed from diseases caused by fungal infections. Common names for these diseases are sap rot, heart rot or wood decay fungi. Fungus causes a tree's tissues to decay and the tree may become too weak to survive.

Prevention

Trees need to have any broken or decaying limbs removed and the wound sealed. Older trees are particularly prone to fungal infection and need regular inspection for any broken or rotting limbs.

Other Tips

Roots of trees need protection from construction projects or they will get damaged. Damaged roots create an opportunity for fungal infections to enter the tree.

Warning

Trees infected with fungus should be pruned regularly to remove any diseased areas. This will help the tree retain its strength. Inspect yearly to see if the tree needs to be removed for safety reasons.

References

• University of California Davis: Wood Decay Fungi in Landscape Trees: Management Guidelines
• University of Massachusetts: Wood Decay Fungi on Living Trees
• Colorado State University: Healthy Roots and Healthy Trees

Resources

• North Carolina State University: Forest Pathology
• Messiah College: Wood Decay Fungi