Trees can get sick as people do. There are numerous infections and diseases that a tree can develop, such as black knot disease which has been making an appearance across Alberta in cities such as Spruce Grove and Edmonton.
Black knot disease is an infestation that occurs on certain types of trees. This guide will discuss how to identify black knot disease and what steps you can take to remedy the problem.
WHAT IS BLACK KNOT DISEASE?
The scientific name for black knot disease is apiosporina morbosa. It's common to the following types of trees:
Cherry
Plum
Peach
Apricot
Other fruit trees
The disease takes the form of small brown or green swellings that can evolve into massive black knots. These knots drain the life of infected twigs and limbs. Black knot disease can disrupt your tree growth and kill it if it isn't addressed.
This type of fungus is a chronic issue. It will spread throughout the rest of your tree. The fungus lays dormant in the winter, spreading its spores during spring.
HOW TO IDENTIFY BLACK KNOT DISEASE?
Black knot identification is easy once it's established in your tree. You'll notice uneven, tar-like, and black knots on the branches of your tree.
Black knot disease develops slowly. Over time it starts to produce spores and will become more visually apparent.
The best way to control black knot disease is to notice that your tree is infected before it gets too established. If you let it grow, the fungus will strangle new branches and limbs on your tree.
Other problems black knot disease can cause include:
More susceptible to plant disease and insect infestation
Deterioration and death
Poor fruit production
WAYS TO CONTROL BLACK KNOT DISEASE
You should inspect your trees seasonally to look for signs of disease. The best time of year to do this is during the winter when there aren't any leaves present. Some key things to look for are:
Swelling
Discoloration
Cracks
If you notice any signs of black knot disease, contact a reputable tree pruning company such as All Season Tree Service. We can safely remove the infected parts of the trees, ensuring that the spores get removed. We might have to remove entire branches if they have established knots.
Continue to inspect your tree to look for signs of black knot disease even after limbs have been removed. You don't want the spores to continue to spread throughout the tree or to nearby trees.
DON’T PUT OFF HAVING AN INFECTED TREE PRUNED OR REMOVED
Tree disease can be catastrophic for not only the infected tree but those around it. Failing to act quickly when you notice signs of infection on your trees might result in the death of your tree. You must partner with an experienced tree trimming company to eliminate the infected branches of your tree. All Season Tree Service has experience removing limbs and branches from trees infected with black knot disease. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! We serve several cities, including Edmonton, Spruce Grove, Sherwood Park and Fort Saskatchewan.