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Seeping trunk on my weeping cherry tree #853848

Asked October 23, 2023, 6:36 PM EDT

I previously sent photos of my weeping cherry tree when I noticed holes in the leaves. You responded Shot Hole. Now the tree looks droopy & the trunk had some shiny discharge on it in 2 areas. Hopefully I can repair this issue. I was waiting for the tree to drop it's leaves so I could cut it back some.

Wayne County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

Shot hole is a problem with the leaves.

Gouges in the trunk of a weeping cherry tree with shiny discharge could be a sign of canker disease. Canker disease can cause sap to ooze from cherry trees, resulting in sunken, dead material around the ooze.

PLEASE get a confirmed diagnosis from the MSU Diagnostic Plant & Pest Lab - Please email your digital images prior to bringing or sending physical samples. It can be sent to <personal data hidden>.

MAKE SURE IN THAT E-MAIL YOU INCLUDE YOUR NAME, ADDRESS, AND PHONE NUMBER!!

Be prepared. The lab may ask for more images - THE LAB WILL LET YOU KNOW IF A SAMPLE NEEDS TO BE SENT - There is a $20-25 dollar fee (if they need a sample sent).

Lab email: <personal data hidden>
Lab phone:<personal data hidden>
Hours of operation: Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

PLEASE READ BELOW ON PREPARING YOUR SAMPLE (if the lab needs a sample)

From the lab: Please do not ship samples on Fridays. They thank you for your patience and understanding.

Every sample must be accompanied by a completed submission form. Please place the form in a separate resealable bag to prevent it from getting damp or soiled. The form is at this link: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/uploads/files/General_Sample_Submission_Form_May2022.pdf.

Complete details of submitting a sample are at this link:  https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/submit-samples/

Another option is to contact a certified arborist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. It is advisable to have an arborist come out and verify the health of the tree. A wound on a tree trunk can become a pathway for diseases, insects, or decay, which can interfere with the movement of water and nutrients. Direct link: https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch
An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 24, 2023, 3:21 PM EDT

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