Trees in the wild often serve as homes for various birds, insects, and other small creatures. However, the dynamics change significantly when white fungus starts to colonize these trees. However, is white fungus on trees dangerous?
If the white fungus on your tree is identified as powdery mildew, then the answer is no. Powdery mildew, while a common type of white fungus on trees, is not considered dangerous because it does not cause long-term harm to the tree.
On the other hand, if the white fungus is due to white-rot fungus, the situation is more serious. White-rot fungus is a tree disease that appears as a white fungus and can cause the tree to begin decaying from the core or the heart.
Types of White Fungus
There are two major types of white fungus: powdery mildew and white-rot fungus. Both signify the existence of a fungal disease on trees.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a type of fungal disease that affects trees, manifesting as a white coat on the leaves. If your tree seems like someone sprayed it with a white, powdery substance, then you are surely looking at powdery mildew. Powdery mildew affects any tree species, leaving tiny fungal spores.
- White-Rot Fungus: White-rot fungus is a type of white fungus that breaks down the tree’s tough layer of lignin. It is the only type of white fungus that eats all the components of wood, which eventually breaks down the tree. It is the most dangerous type of white fungus.
Actions to Take Upon Discovering White Fungus on Your Trees
White fungus is dangerous on trees if your tree exhibits all the signs of white-rot fungus. To address this impending danger, contact a certified arborist who can assess the presence of white fungus and evaluate the tree’s current state of health. If the arborist determines there’s a chance to save the tree, they will use their expertise to implement the necessary interventions.
If the tree is beyond saving due to the destructive nature of white-rot fungus, the arborist will advise you on how to have it removed. After removing the tree, it is advisable to burn the stump to minimize the risk of the white-rot fungus spreading to other healthy trees and causing their death.
Read more: Selecting the Right Arborist: Qualities That Arborists Should Possess
Don’t Let White Fungus Kill Your Precious Trees
Having trees on your property is usually a part of major investment decisions. It is sad to watch your investment go down the drain as a result of a white-rot fungus. At Acorn Tree Care, we believe that when it comes to taking care of trees, there’s no substitute for experienced professionals and high-quality equipment. Contact us today for tree services in Dawsonville, GA.