Tree fungi penetrate unnoticed into the wood to colonize and decompose it. Some fungi are harmless, others are extremely destructive and very contagious to neighboring trees and shrubs. The determination is difficult for the layman, because there are thousands of species. As a home gardener, you are not completely helpless when faced with a fungal infestation. This guide explains when and how to combat tree fungi professionally.

Fungal infestation can cause serious damage to the tree

How do the mushrooms get into the tree?

Tree fungi are living beings that are composed of a fungal network and fruiting bodies. With the help of their spores, the fungi penetrate the wood and permeate the entire tree with a fluffy white network, the mycelium. Only in the advanced stage do the fruiting bodies appear on the bark as the visible component. These are used solely for reproduction by producing new spores and scattering them in the garden.

Prevention instead of fighting - this is how it works

When the fruiting bodies of tree fungi appear, the fungal networks in the wood have been up to mischief for years. Fighting the uninvited guests is therefore rarely crowned with success. By denying the cunning spores access to the wood, you effectively prevent fungal infestation on trees. The following measures make a valuable contribution to fungal prevention:

  • Match the location precisely to the species-specific needs
  • Water and fertilize trees species-appropriately without causing waterlogging or drought stress
  • Avoid injuries of all kinds during planting, care and pruning
  • Do not mulch tree discs in autumn and winter

One of the most important preventative measures is to dig up and remove the entire rootstock whenever you clear a tree. Numerous tree fungi target dead wood in order to settle here and spread in the garden.

Successfully combating tree fungi in the early stages - this is how it works

Removing the colorful fruiting bodies of tree fungi does not usually contribute to recovery. Only in the early stages are there prospects of extending the lifespan of the affected tree by several years. If the fruiting bodies sprout on side branches, cut them back into the healthy wood. Spore carriers on the trunk and main branches are removed before maturity without damaging the bark.

tips

One of the most common sources of danger for infection with tree fungi is wounding of the roots. The main cause is the lawn mower's cutter bar when the grass is mowed on the tree disc. You can avoid this risk by covering the root disk with bark mulch, lawn pavers or paving stones.

Category:

Vegetable garden