Healthy trees have gorgeous foliage, branches, and trunks that can heighten any McMinnville property’s curbside appeal. However, unsightly black fungus can form along a tree, tarnishing its once-beautiful appearance while causing multiple health issues that can sometimes be fatal. Fortunately, you can learn how to get rid of black fungus on trees with this guide from Oregon Arborist.
Our team at Oregon Arborist has provided McMinnville with first-class tree care and removal services for over 30 years. For safe tree removal in McMinnville, Oregon, contact our friendly and skilled experts.
What Is Black Fungus?
Black fungus is a common sign of black knot disease, a severe fungal infection that can wreak havoc on a tree’s health, appearance, and structure. It often starts as a white or velvety green fungus and gradually turns black over time. The disease can make tree branches appear swollen and hard while generating large black knots along the limbs.
Although many tree species can contract black knot disease, cherry and plum trees are the most susceptible.
Common signs of black knot disease include:
- Wilting and browning leaves
- Infected limbs tilt to a specific side
- Black knots form along branches
- Rot and decay
Removing Fungus From Tree Bark: Best Practices
Homeowners can treat black knot disease if they act quickly. The longer you take to treat infected trees, the harder it is to eliminate the disease. Use the following fungal tree disease control tips to learn how to get rid of black fungus on trees.
Prune Infected Branches
Pruning is more than an effective tree health preservation practice. It’s also one of the best treatments for back knot disease and can help the tree regrow healthy branches.
Use sharp shears to cut 2 to 4 inches below the knot to remove infected limbs.
Once cut, burn or properly dispose of the branches to prevent them from infecting other trees. Also, sanitize your shears before cutting additional limbs to prevent the spread of the disease.
Apply Fungicide
Many home improvement stores sell fungicides that eradicate fungus and black mold on trees without jeopardizing their health. However, before applying the fungicide, trim infected branches and properly discard them.
After cutting infected branches, follow the tree fungus treatment’s directions and spray it along the tree’s structure. It’s best to apply fungicide during spring when the temperature surpasses 60 degrees.
It’s important to note that not all fungicides are tree-safe. Always check the fungicide’s label to ensure it won’t harm the tree before application.
Contact Oregon Arborist for Exceptional Tree Maintenance Services in McMinnville, Oregon
If you want to enhance your trees’ appearance while preventing tree fungus growth, contact our team at Oregon Arborist. We will explain how to get rid of black fungus on trees so they continue to enhance your property for years to come. Whether you need professional tree maintenance or tips for consulting an arborist, our team has you covered.
Give us a call at (503) 899-4166 or complete our online form and enhance your McMinnville, Oregon, property’s trees today!