Butt Rot in Trees

Butt rot in trees is essentially root rot that eventually ends up as butt rot. It mostly affects hardwood trees; however, softwoods can also fall victim in the right circumstances. Often times, fungal outbreaks are to blame for root rot development, which also cause tree butt decay. This is more common in very old or mature trees that have suffered injuries to their root system or base.

Poor soil conditions are the biggest cause for root and butt rot to develop. Once afflicted with root rot, trees are much more susceptible to harsh weather conditions like storms, rain, heavy winds, extreme temperatures, and even the weight of snow and ice in the winter.

For this reason, it is a serious tree disease that should be addressed as soon as possible, especially if the tree is large and located near structures or high traffic areas, like sidewalks, cars, and houses. Furthermore, it is wise to both treat and prevent root and butt rot in your landscaping trees.

Butt Rot Identification

Butt rot is not always clearly evident, so it is important to do a series of visual inspections over the course of a few years to determine an outbreak. Keep in mind that it may take up to 4 or 5 years for a tree to start showing symptoms. The most tell-tale sign of tree butt rot is conk growth (see image above) at the base, which are shell-like fruiting bodies of fungi. Additional symptoms of butt rot in trees include crown die back, leaf discoloration or loss, and an overall unhealthy appearance.

Treatment and Prevention

Although a tree with butt or root rot can potentially survive for several years, they are safety hazards that should be removed upon diagnosis. You see, there is no treatment for butt rot or root rot. There are some studies that suggest crown reduction by pruning and fertilization might help a tree live longer, this is not proven. Unfortunately, butt rot can only be controlled by taking the proper preventative measures. Common methods of prevention include removing the stumps and root balls of trees that have be removed as a result of root rot, as well as, sterilizing the soil around the tree with an approved pesticide.

Where to Get Affordable Tree Removal in Noblesville Indiana

Call 317-537-9770 for trusted and affordable tree removal in Noblesville, Indiana. We provide a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. From tree removal and tree trimming, to stump grinding, stump removal, and more, we are fully-equipped to meet all your tree service needs at a price you can afford. In fact, be sure you check out our tree service coupons and discounts too!

It seems like the spring season is almost upon us since the snow has melted and the rain is in full affect. Everything growing in the ground needs this seasonal showering of water for spring growth to occur; however, can too much water be a bad thing for trees? After all, the results of back-to-back melting snow and rainfall might have your lawn feeling a little too soggy.

Continue reading to learn the facts about tree watering and tree care that will set you on the right track toward optimal tree health.

Over-Watered Trees

It is common knowledge that water is the ultimate, essential resource for trees and plants. Without it, there is just no chance for survival. On the other hand, the old saying, “too much of a good thing can be bad” might apply to landscaping trees under certain circumstances. It is possible to over-water a tree, and similarly, for a tree to receive too much water from snow and rain.

One of the most detrimental risks associated with over-watering are water-logged tree roots, which can lead to a vascular fungal disease within the root system. When tree roots accumulate too much water, they cannot receive enough oxygen, nor properly transport water through the rest of a tree. Common symptoms of an over-watered tree include leaf wilting, scorched leaves, pest infestation, root rot, bark rot, and leaning.

What About Flood-Resistant Tree Species?

A water tolerant, or flood-resistant, tree will be able to withstand, and ultimately, survive, the conditions it is exposed to standing water over a period of time. Examples of such trees that are compatible with Indiana hardiness zones include River Birch, Weeping Willow, Bald Cypress, and believe it or not, Red Maple. Additional water tolerant tree species to consider include Hackberry, Black Tupelo, American Sweetgum, and Overcup Oak. However, there is a point to which even flood-resistant tree species can receive too much water, and ultimately, become water-logged.

How to Water a Tree Properly

The general rule of thumb for watering trees varies a bit depending on certain factors. But with all tree water, keep in mind that heavy, slow watering once or twice a week is better than frequent short watering. Also be sure your trees are properly mulched, at least 2 to 3 inches around the base, to netter retain moisture during dry periods. You know your trees have receive the right amount of water when you dig 6 to 8 inches in the soil and it is moist but not soggy.

Use this guide below as a reference for proper tree watering:

🌲 Newly-Planted or Transplanted – 1 to 2 times a week during growth season.
🌳 Young Trees – Water regularly during periods of no rainfall.
🌲 Mature Trees – 1 to 2 times a week during growth season.
🌳 Sick Trees – Water regularly, while seeking advice from a certified arborist.

Where to Find Affordable Noblesville Tree Service

Call 317-537-9770 for professional tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We offer a wide range of professional tree services for residential and commercial properties. Ask us about our competitive pricing and our tree service coupons! And please feel free to contact us anytime for free estimates, advice, general tree removal information, and more. Call 317-537-9770 to request a free estimate, today.

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Monthly Archives: March 2020

What is Butt Rot?