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What is this soft spot on my chitalpa tree? #870093

Asked May 25, 2024, 7:08 PM EDT

I have two chitalpa trees in my parking strip, both exhibiting darkening and brittle bark easily picked off. On one of the trees, a large chunk came off revealing a significant and SOFT reddish area (see pic). Is my chitalpa in jeopardy and is there anything I can do to remedy this issue? The canopy foliage looks great.

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

I would add that this soft spot is around an inch or so deep and the darkening and brittle bark goes up about 5 feet or so on the primary trunk and then smooths out how the bark should appear. Would it be wise for me to address the afflicted soft spot with copper based fungicide now? Is this a nutritional issue (fertilizer) or too much/too little watering? I also get the leaf drop when it gets hot here in PDX and I am aware of the fungus that afflicts the leaves. Right now, both canopies look lush and fine and I don't want to lose either tree after 16 years. Any and all advice appreciated.

The Question Asker Replied May 25, 2024, 10:28 PM EDT
Hi Ted and thanks for your question and picture of your ailing Chitalpa tree. I really think you need to call an ISA certified arborist to look at the tree. It looks a lot like Piliated Woodpecker damage, but that would mean there is something else wrong with the tree to attract the bird. Try to get several opinions before you decide on treatment, but don't spray anything until you get a diagnosis that makes sense.

You can find arborists near you at the following website and they won't charge to come out and look at the tree, only for treatment.
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch
Good luck and I hope it is a treatable problem!
Rhonda Frick-Wright Replied May 28, 2024, 8:43 PM EDT

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