Maple tree inverted mushroom with red - Ask Extension
“I noticed my maple tree has a growth on the base. There were red bugs near the base a week or so ago and I sprayed with a safe insect spray. Today ...
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Maple tree inverted mushroom with red #659454
Asked July 03, 2020, 3:43 PM EDT
“I noticed my maple tree has a growth on the base. There were red bugs near the base a week or so ago and I sprayed with a safe insect spray. Today I see this growth that looks like an inverted mushroom with red on it. I also see some ants today. I just saw a picture online https://www.melindamyers.com/articles/mushrooms-growing-at-the-base-of-maple-tree
So think I know what it is. "The growths on your maple tree are the fruiting bodies of a shelf fungus." What can I do about it? And is it harmful to leave? Can I break it off? thanks !!
Howard County Maryland
Expert Response
That answer appears to be correct. This is a type of tree decay fungi which will eventually kill your tree.
Here is our page on this: https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/wood-rots-and-decay-trees-and-shrubs
Christine
Here is our page on this: https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/wood-rots-and-decay-trees-and-shrubs
Christine
thanks, hope I can find someone to save it. brenda
If this tree is near a structure or could pose a danger to people or property it should be removed. For help finding a licensed arborist in your area go to the following website,
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
Also, look at the following webpage from our website,
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree
Deb
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
Also, look at the following webpage from our website,
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree
Deb