Mushrooms aren’t something seen just at your local market! (though these are delicious and nutritious)
They’re out there in nature, in forests & woods in particular… but also sometimes in our yards.
If you see mushrooms on a tree on your property, what should you do?
The Presence of Mushrooms on a Tree: What Does It Mean?
First off, while this goes without saying for most folks, don’t eat the tree mushrooms from your yard.
Mushrooms on a tree could be an indicator that the tree is facing serious health issues. These could also be harmful if consumed.
When mushrooms show up, it could be a sign that the tree is infected with a rot-inducing agent. While not all spore-bearing bodies are harmful to trees, many are.
Like other property owners with mushrooms on trees in Ottawa, you may be worried about fungi growing out of your trees. That’s completely understandable. Let’s take a look at the possibilities.
Identification of the Tree Fungi
By the time mushrooms pop up, the internal structure of the tree could already be compromised.
Mushrooms are the fruiting body of a fungus, which enters the trees that have been affected by storms, extreme temperatures, improper pruning, lightning strikes, or other means of damage.
Some symptoms of fungal attack might be easy to miss if there are no mushrooms.
For this reason, it is important to rely on a certified arborist to look after your beloved trees. Ottawa arborists are tree experts are knowledgeable on arboriculture and will be able to identify damage way before mushrooms appear – or to advise on what to do now that mushrooms are on a tree.
How does Fungi Infect Trees?
While some species of fungi attack the tree directly, some others enter it through a wound.
Once the fungus finds a way in, it damages the tree’s interior tissue, producing an enzyme that destroys the wood’s fibres.
As the fungus feeds on the tree, it becomes weaker, to the point of breaking down or falling over people and properties.
In addition, the fungus and spores can also live in the soil, proving fatal to the plants and shrubs living on the same spot
How to Prevent Mushroom Colonies around Trees
Although it is a challenge to prevent fungus from attacking your trees, there are some measures that you can put into place:
- Remove fallen leaves or debris from the area
- Clean your garden tools every time you use them
- Do not overwater beds and ensure that the soil drains well
There are fungicides available on the market, but be sure to purchase only those recommended by your trusted Ottawa arborist.
Remember that all garden treatments come with directions, so don’t overdo it. Otherwise, you may end up poisoning your tree.
Can an Infected Tree with Mushrooms Be Saved?
Mushrooms will not always be present in the case of a fungus, as some species can only last a few days or weeks.
They may appear on the trunk, the limbs, or along the roots. Unfortunately, once mushrooms appear as the result of a fungus, often even an experienced arborist cannot save a tree.
Trees damaged by fungus can necessitate tree removal.
Occasionally, if the infected limb is detached, you will be able to save your tree.
In any case, be sure to get hold of an arborist who can assess the situation and advise accordingly. Better safe than sorry!
Ottawa Arborists Who Handle Mushrooms Growing on Trees
If you have a tree with mushrooms growing on it, get in touch with Croft Tree Experts.
We are Ottawa and the Valley’s trusted tree care experts, providing an unmatched expertise in the Canadian tree care industry.
Our services include, but are not limited to, stump grinding, tree removal, pruning, trimming, tree planting, and mulching.
For help with tree mushrooms and other tree care matters, contact us today!