Heart rot

Heart rot is a type of tree disease that affects the hardwood of trees. It is a common disease in older trees and can cause significant damage to the structural integrity of the tree.

Causes

Heart rot is caused by various fungi that enter the tree through wounds in the bark. These wounds can be caused by a variety of factors, including insect damage, fire, or mechanical injury. Once inside the tree, the fungi begin to break down the heartwood, causing decay and rot.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of heart rot is the presence of fruiting bodies or conks on the outside of the tree. These are the reproductive structures of the fungi and are often visible long before other symptoms appear. Other symptoms can include a hollow or rotten core, reduced growth, and in severe cases, the tree may become structurally unstable and fall over.

Treatment and Prevention

There is no known cure for heart rot once it has infected a tree. The best method of prevention is to avoid wounding the tree, as this provides an entry point for the fungi. Regular inspections can also help to identify and treat potential problems before they become severe.

Impact

Heart rot can have a significant impact on the health and longevity of a tree. It can reduce the tree's structural integrity, making it more susceptible to falling over in strong winds or storms. This can pose a risk to people and property. In addition, heart rot can also reduce the tree's growth and overall health.

See Also

• Tree disease
• Fungi
• Insect damage
• Fire
• Mechanical injury

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