Post category: Canker and dieback

 

These are general names given to the damage caused by the fungal and bacterial diseases that kill twigs and branches. The bark often dies with a sunken, cracked or papery appearance. Many kinds of trees and shrubs can be affected by these diseases, which are most common in wet localities, on heavy soil and in over-sheltered gardens.

Apples, willow, roses, beech, ash, laburnum and clematis are commonly affected. Prune out the cankers and twigs that have died-back, because these are a source of fresh infection. An application of potash fertiliser helps to toughen the wood.