Apple Tree Infestation - Ask Extension
I noticed an issue with my (3) apple trees late last fall, which the trees are quite old and I have never seen this before. All three have the bark p...
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Apple Tree Infestation #867420
Asked May 07, 2024, 12:46 PM EDT
I noticed an issue with my (3) apple trees late last fall, which the trees are quite old and I have never seen this before. All three have the bark peeling off with tiny holes in the area. Please see the pictures attached. Will you please help me identify the problem and treatment to save the tree if possible.
Thank you.
Henry County Ohio
Expert Response
Thank you for your question.
The black deformed areas are most probably apple canker. The advice from university agricultural extensions is to remove the cankerous areas because diseases, fungi and bacteria can thrive in those areas. Normally pruning should be done during dormant periods, but the cankerous areas should be removed as soon as possible. This site gives you advice on how to prune if you need it.
What is this strange growth on my apple tree? | OSU Extension Service (oregonstate.edu)
This site also recommends using "a Bordeaux mixture spray or approved fixed copper materials." If you use chemicals, you need to follow the directions exactly. It's the law.
It is best to cut all the cankers out even if it seems you are leaving nothing to grow. Otherwise, the tree will infect all other trees and then die. This remedy is difficult, so I sympathize. I had cankers on a plum tree and cut it back a few years ago, and now it is regrowing with no cankers.
I wish you good luck and hope your apple trees survive! Sincerely,
The black deformed areas are most probably apple canker. The advice from university agricultural extensions is to remove the cankerous areas because diseases, fungi and bacteria can thrive in those areas. Normally pruning should be done during dormant periods, but the cankerous areas should be removed as soon as possible. This site gives you advice on how to prune if you need it.
What is this strange growth on my apple tree? | OSU Extension Service (oregonstate.edu)
This site also recommends using "a Bordeaux mixture spray or approved fixed copper materials." If you use chemicals, you need to follow the directions exactly. It's the law.
It is best to cut all the cankers out even if it seems you are leaving nothing to grow. Otherwise, the tree will infect all other trees and then die. This remedy is difficult, so I sympathize. I had cankers on a plum tree and cut it back a few years ago, and now it is regrowing with no cankers.
I wish you good luck and hope your apple trees survive! Sincerely,
