Maple tree salvageable? - Ask Extension
We have a large (probably ~60 ft) Sugar Maple in our side yard, and im concerned its developing heart rot. It was thinned out prior to us moving in (2...
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Maple tree salvageable? #935742
Asked June 16, 2026, 2:14 PM EDT
We have a large (probably ~60 ft) Sugar Maple in our side yard, and im concerned its developing heart rot. It was thinned out prior to us moving in (2015), and the old branch sites are rotting, collecting water, and growing mushrooms. The mushrooms are round and firm, brownish gray, sometimes "puff" spores, approximately 1-2 inches in diameter. The leaves have black spots when they come down in the fall.
The tree otherwise seems hearty, and continues to grow new shoots/branches. No major limb breakage, just loses old, small branches in storms.
Is the tree salvageable, and if so, how do we protect it?
Lapeer County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
Once rot enters a tree trunk there is no way to remove it or stop it. The tree is trying to close the wounds from pruning, as you can see the light colored, rolled edges of wood around the cuts.
Since the tree is close to a building, I recommend you have a certified arborist with the designation of “tree risk assessment” be hired to come on site and give you a professional opinion. Find them here by zip code search. https://www.treesaregood.org/
Some trees can live a long time with certain kinds of fungi. The arborist will have specialized tools and experience to determine if this tree is safe.
Once rot enters a tree trunk there is no way to remove it or stop it. The tree is trying to close the wounds from pruning, as you can see the light colored, rolled edges of wood around the cuts.
Since the tree is close to a building, I recommend you have a certified arborist with the designation of “tree risk assessment” be hired to come on site and give you a professional opinion. Find them here by zip code search. https://www.treesaregood.org/
Some trees can live a long time with certain kinds of fungi. The arborist will have specialized tools and experience to determine if this tree is safe.
