pH News - Orange County Extension Education Center - University ...

what might be going on in the tree to encourage its rapid
growth. And also if it might be a significant negative
indicator.
Although weʹve been working for all these years to keep
the tree, weʹre concerned it might be time to change
direction. The tree has been a wonderful perch for a family
of Barred Owls that nests close by as well as a resting place
for Bald Eagles, hawks and almost everything else that
flies. So we want to make sure the end is near before we
take drastic action.
A: Thanks for the pictures of the conks on your oak tree. I am sorry to say but you have a
hazardous tree on your landscape and it should be removed at your earliest opportunity.
You have Heart or Canker Rot fungal disease. The first symptom of this disease is a white rot of
the heartwood and the eventual death of the cambium and sapwood. The decay removes lignin
and the wood becomes spongy. The conks exhibit dull brown peg like structures that may
exceed 20 inches in length on the outside of the tree.
Conks form in the summer and early autumn. The conks are smooth and shelf‐like and are fully
grown within one to two weeks. The top of the fungus is yellow to rusty red and the porous
bottom is rust color. Conks sometimes form at the base of infected trees among root flares.
Infected trees show symptoms of general tree decline including branch dieback, loss of leaves
and yellowing or browning of leaves in summer.
Trees weakened by drought stress, wounding or other injuries are most susceptible. Optimal
temperature for growth is 95°F. Old conks or remnants may continue to fruit for up to five years.
The recommended control is to remove hazardous trees to protect property and people. Time
pruning of infected branches to minimize exposure of susceptible tissues and when spores are
not disseminated (late winter or spring).
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Annual Holly Days Party
And Luncheon
Host: Master Gardener Pat Fusco
December 15, 2013 1-4P Lunch @ 2P
6212 Bordeaux Circle, Sanford, 32771
This is a pot luck luncheon (please let me know what you are bringing).
There will also be a plant/gift exchange not to exceed $15.
Please bring your favorite dish to share!
If you are ATTENDING, please RSVP to planeprincess1968@gmail.com/817-909-6255
By December 14 (gated community)
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