Ask The Expert

 

Our knowledgeable staff here at Garden-Ville are available to answer many of the questions you might have about gardens, landscaping, and trees. Many problems with plants, however, cannot be responsibly diagnosed other than in person. We're located in central Texas and may not be familiar with the details of gardening in very different climate or soil zones. One of the guiding principles of organic growing is adapting methods to the particularites of local soil and climate. With that in mind we'll do our best to answer your question, but if we can't we'll be happy to help you find the appropriate resources or professionals in your area.

Feel free to browse the topics below to see if we've already answered a question similar to yours. If you can't find the information you need, the question submission form is located at the bottom of the page.

  • I live in the North Texas area and have a blooming crabapple tree in my front yard. It has done fairly well in the last couple of years. I have noticed mushrooms growing on it and spots on the trunk. They are not white but are a lighter color than the bark. Do you think I have a problem?

    10/14/200810:17:23 AM Link 0 comments | Add comment

    Sick Tree Treatment, Tree Questions

    Anytime you have mushrooms growing on a tree it indicates a serious problem. Mushrooms are the fruiting body of fungi. The main part of the fungus is the mycelium, which is growing inside the wood. Different fungi have different specific effects on a tree, but many of them can seriously weaken or kill a tree. The mushroom is just the exterior sign.

     

    Fungi usually attack weak or stressed trees. I would recommend having a certified arborist out to inspect the tree and make treatment recommendations. An application of compost covered by mulch around the base of the tree to a diamater of at least 6' or the dripline (whichever is less) can be very helpful to a tree. We also sell a product called Sick Tree Treatment that is available for order from our website or at many of retailers who carry our products. They may also be able to order it for you. However, avoid any nitrogen fertilizers for the time being, as this can stimulate growth and inhibit the tree's defensive reaction. Make sure the tree is getting sufficient water but be very careful not to overwater. If you are experiencing average rainfall supplemental water shouldn't be necessary. In any event don't water more than once a week, deeply. Many fungal diseases thrive in overly wet conditions.

Add Comment
Name
Comment
Ask Your Question Here




Question?