Diseased Trees: Warning Signs

If a tree in your garden becomes diseased, it can lead to the disfiguration, deterioration and even death of the tree. This could have an impact on the look of your garden and if the tree has a special place in your affections this could even be heartbreaking. But how do you know if your tree is diseased? Below are the symptoms of three diseases which can commonly impact Australian trees.

Myrtle Rust  

Myrtle rust is a fungal disease which can have a terrible effect on your trees. Once a tree in your garden has been infected, Myrtle rust is all but impossible to remove or destroy. This is because the fungus produces a very large number of spores which become airborne and can be transmitted to other plants by humans and animals, which causes other plants and trees to become infected. The symptoms of Myrtle rust are small raised pustules on the surface of the fruit, flowers and leaves of the plant. These pustules will quickly turn yellow and develop into spores, which will be released into the environment. If myrtle rust is not treated, it will gradually destroy the leaves of the tree, stunt its growth and could even lead to tree death. If you detect signs of myrtle rust, you should immediately contact a professional tree lopping and removal service.

Peacock Spot

Peacock spot is a fungal growth which normally affects olive trees. It produces circular lesion, which are dark with a yellow halo, on the leaves of the tree, causing the tree to shed its leaves out of season. While you may think that winter has killed the fungus, this disease can become dormant and survive the colder months to return in the spring. If you have olive or other trees which show signs of being infected by peacock spot, it is important that you have the tree assessed by a professional tree service who will be able to assess the tree and advise you on what action you need to take next.

Erythricium Salmonicolor

Erythricium salmonicolor is an organism which causes the growth of fungus on the trunk and branches of a tree. The fungus can cause the trunk and branches of the tree to become sunken or swollen, resulting in a cracked or split bark. If Erythricium salmonicolor is left untreated, it may attack the cambial layer beneath the bark, which can result in the death of the tree. If you suspect your tree has been affected by Erythricium salmonicolor, you may need to consider having it removed.

If you have any questions and concerns about the health of your trees, you should contact a professional tree removal service.