What do you know about annosus root rot disease? Like most novice tree owners, there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of this deadly tree disease. However, it can cause significant damage to the root system, trunk, and overall structural integrity of your favorite tree. If you have a pine tree or another type of hardwood in your yard, be on the lookout for the most common symptoms of this fungal illness.
Yellow or White Conks
Perhaps the most telltale sign of an annosus infection is the presence of yellow or white fungal conks near the base of your tree. These mushroom-like growths indicate a rot-inducing fungus inside the roots and trunk. You may notice conks under litter or in any hollow stumps. Some conks even hide out of sight in the root channels. While conks are a clear sign of a fungal disease, not every infected tree will have them.
A Thinning Crown
Healthy pine trees should have a thick, lush crown with dark green needles. Any sudden change in the appearance of your tree’s crown, such as thinning, could indicate annosus rot. You may notice a sparse crown with discolored needles. There may also be an abundance of cones. Since annosus isn’t the only reason for a thinning crown, you need to call out an expert to diagnose the cause.
Suddenly Leaning Tree
Annosus rot causes extreme damage to the root system. Eventually, there will not be enough support to hold up the tree, and it may begin to lean. A severely ill tree may even fall. Since the fungus quickly spreads unground from one tree to the next, you may notice nearby trees beginning to lean. Unfortunately, removal is usually the only option at this point.
Damaged Roots
Decaying, white tree roots are a well-known symptom of an annosus infection. The roots may also have a stringy appearance. As the disease progresses, you may find resin-soaked root sections. The resin is usually a bright cinnamon brown. Since most of the roots remain underground, most people don’t notice the damage until the tree falls or dies.
Protect Your Pine Trees from Annosus Root Rot
Annosus disease is often fatal, but there are steps you can take to prevent an infection. Regularly treating freshly cut branches or wounded bark is the best way to keep the fungus at bay. Since most of the damage from root rot happens below the soil, it’s easy to miss early signs of the disease. Removing diseased trees is often the only treatment option. And post-treatment of stumps can also help stop the infection from spreading to nearby pines.
Worried that your pine trees may have a fungal infection? The tree experts at Engram’s Tree Service are here to help. With over 25 years of experience, our husband and wife team can handle any problem that may arise. From pruning branches to tree removal, we do it all! We even have a certified arborist on staff to keep your trees healthy. Schedule service with us if you need a proven solution for an annosus root rot infection.