Just like humans, plants can suffer from cancer. In humans, the diagnosis is usually very serious, often fatal, but trees can be saved with the right treatment. Do you know how to do it?
The thing that causes cancer in trees is a fungus called Nectria galligena. If the spores of this fungus enter an open spot on a tree, the infection gradually begins to spread further, forming a circular, clearly demarcated wound. The infested tree usually tries to fight the pest on its own, but usually unsuccessfully. If it is not treated properly, the disease can result in complete dieback of the tree, leading to death.
Be uncompromising and intervene early
You can usually tell at a glance that cancer has taken up residence on a tree. Diagnosis is not a problem, but treatment is worse. Many people have no idea how to deal with this fungus. The diseased, brownish cankers need to be cut out and properly hollowed out immediately after harvesting the fruit. Don’t be afraid to hollow until you find perfectly healthy wood. Also remove tuberous areas and thin shoots that have also been affected. Do not dispose of this waste in the compost heap, but rather burn it immediately to prevent the fungus from spreading elsewhere. Once the diseased parts have been removed, the open wounds of the tree should be properly sealed, ideally with sowing balm.
It attacks even in autumn
Humid and wet autumn weather can encourage the spread of harmful fungal spores. They can then easily get into small cuts or wounds created, for example, during harvesting or tree canopy treatments. To prevent the spread of infection, it is advisable to spray trees in three stages. Apple trees are clearly among the most at risk, so spraying should not be neglected. Spray first after harvest, then halfway through leaf fall and last immediately after the rest of the leaves have fallen. Use Kuprikol 50 or Champion 50WP.