It's hard to identify the cause, since some conditions can overlap in their symptoms, but this appears to be a case of wetwood or slime flux. They are fairly common occurrences, and don't always indicate wood decay or another problem. However, it might not hurt to have the tree evaluated by a certified arborist, who can look more closely at this area and also examine the tree's base and surroundings for sources of stress that might be able to be alleviated. Arborists can't cure or treat every ailment, but they can help to make a diagnosis and evaluate overall tree health.

If you were not already planning on doing so, we do suggest the removal of the English Ivy from its trunk (and the entire area, if possible). This invasive species can harbor some diseases capable of infecting certain trees, but it mainly also just risks long-term tree health when it climbs the trunk into the canopy. While probably not responsible for this symptom, unless the ivy had previously been covering the trunk, it's something to keep in mind to protect the tree's health going forward.

Miri



Hello Dana,

You're welcome!

Extension doesn't collect information about individuals or businesses with regard to arborists or landscapers (their level of training, their fees, their services offered, their customer reviews, etc.), nor do we make business recommendations or referrals, so unfortunately we don't have what you're looking for. Some arborists work for tree-care companies, but some consult independently if that is preferred. If costs are low enough for an evaluation visit, you can always get a second or even third opinion before taking action. This is in part because, although they all have a baseline level of advanced training to become certified, some arborists are more practiced at diagnosing ailments than others, due to varying familiarity with the nuances of tree biology plus plant pathology or insect ID.

Miri

You're welcome!