Hypoxylon Transfer to neighboring oaks - Ask Extension
I have a very dead standing tree in my back yard that one local arborist has noted died due to hypoxylon. While he stated that the fungus is transfera...
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Hypoxylon Transfer to neighboring oaks #873833
Asked June 19, 2024, 5:57 PM EDT
I have a very dead standing tree in my back yard that one local arborist has noted died due to hypoxylon. While he stated that the fungus is transferable to the other trees on our lot and that the removal requires extra care to prevent the spread, other arborists have stated that there isn't a real concern of spreading hypoxylon since the tree is so dead. I've found some information online, but it seems to only pertain to a sick tree with active hypoxyolon, not an older dead tree that shows signs of having died from hypoxylon.
Hamilton County Ohio
Expert Response
I've never heard this perspective before. The fungus behind Hypoxylon canker is what we call a "weak pathogen." It targets trees that are heavily stressed, dying, or recently dead. It doesn't infect healthy trees. So, I can't imagine an increased risk to healthy trees during removal unless the arborist makes cuts on other trees using equipment that was used to take down your dead tree!
