Infected Tree: What Can Be Done? - Ask Extension
I have a Thundercloud Plum tree as a decorative focal point for my landscaped front yard. Last Spring I removed the central leader limb because it wa...
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Infected Tree: What Can Be Done? #302050
Asked February 20, 2016, 3:18 PM EST
I have a Thundercloud Plum tree as a decorative focal point for my landscaped front yard. Last Spring I removed the central leader limb because it was dead. Today I noticed another branch that is dead and is also missing some bark. Where the bark is missing, I can see the tracks of some kind of boring insects. They appear to have been feasting on the cambium. Tracks end at small holes that bore into the woody part of the limb. Attaching pictures.
Can you identify the pest and suggest an insecticide to save the tree? Any information would be helpful. Thanks in advance.
Prince George's County Maryland
Expert Response
We can't see your whole situation there, but it sounds as if your ornamental plum has reached the end of it's useful life. Ornamental fruit trees are not terribly long lived. You are doing well if you get 20-30 years out of it. They have many problems for which there are not easy nor environmentally sound solutions.
In your case, given that you have already removed the central leader and sloughing bark which suggests dead wood which is irreparable suggests that this has been an issue for quite a while.
We would recommend shopping for a replacement focal point in this area, and would steer you away from another plum.
Here is our Extension publication called IPM:Ornamental Fruit Trees, which can help you understand the problems these trees are prone to:
http://www.extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_images/programs/hgic/Publications/HG93_IPM_Series_...
Also, "How to Decide When to Remove a Tree: http://www.extension.umd.edu/learn/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree
cm
In your case, given that you have already removed the central leader and sloughing bark which suggests dead wood which is irreparable suggests that this has been an issue for quite a while.
We would recommend shopping for a replacement focal point in this area, and would steer you away from another plum.
Here is our Extension publication called IPM:Ornamental Fruit Trees, which can help you understand the problems these trees are prone to:
http://www.extension.umd.edu/sites/default/files/_images/programs/hgic/Publications/HG93_IPM_Series_...
Also, "How to Decide When to Remove a Tree: http://www.extension.umd.edu/learn/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree
cm
