- Signs of fungal infestation of the yew tree
- Possible causes of fungal infestation
- Fungal infestation on the yew cannot be treated
- Prevent fungal infestation when planting
It is rare for yew trees to become ill with fungal infestation. A combination of various causes is usually responsible for an infestation by fungi, especially the wilt fungus. How do you recognize a fungal infestation and what can you do about it?
If the leaves of the yew become discolored, this can indicate a fungal infestation
Signs of fungal infestation of the yew tree
If the needles of the yew become soft, turn light in color and fall off, you should suspect a fungal infestation and examine the trees for this. If there are no signs of damage by pests, a fungal infestation is likely.
Possible causes of fungal infestation
- Too humid weather
- waterlogging in the soil
- Yew trees are too close together
- bad condition of the yews
Fungal infestation on the yew cannot be treated
If the yew is infested with a fungus, there is not much you can do about it. Often the yew cannot be saved.
If the yew still has some healthy branches, you should take action immediately. As a first measure, cut off all affected parts of the plant radically. Dispose of them in the household waste. Under no circumstances should you compost such waste, as the fungus will then spread even further. If the soil is too compacted, try carefully to loosen it. If possible, put in a drain.
Give the yews extra fertilizer and water them with growth aids from garden supply stores. Yews are very robust. They usually recover after some time.
Prevent fungal infestation when planting
To prevent your yew trees from developing fungal infestation in the first place, you should follow a few rules when planting.
Make sure that the soil is well loosened, has no thickening and rainwater can run off easily. Improve the soil by working in mature compost, horn shavings ($39.99) and some lime as well. Then the tree gets enough nutrients.
Do not plant yews too densely in the hedge. Then the air can circulate better and fungi cannot spread so quickly.
tips
If the needles turn yellow or brown, pests such as scale insects can also be the cause in addition to a fungal infestation. Examine the yews carefully and, if necessary, consult a specialist.