Gerry McGovern asked 15 years ago
A Hawthorn (pink flowerng) about 13 years od. It did not thrive this year, leaves thin,flowers poor and the leaves are almost gone now. I attach a photo taken in mid August. See the burnt leaves and the fungus like growth on the branch. This fungus is now yellow and crumbly and covers most of the outer twigs and branches. Any ideas on what I could do?
1 Answers
Gerry Daly Staff answered 6 years ago
The fungus-like growth is lichen which does not cause the problem but expoits the poor foliage cover to use the tree as a site in which to grow. The tree is struggling for some reason, probably a root problem, possibly water-logging, or root disease. Not much can be done. If it is a drained area, make sure the drainage outlets are open and working. Otherwise, it must take its chances.
