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A Guide to Annosus Root Rot

A Guide to Annosus Root Rot

Trees are more than just healthy branches and thick foliage—they have a vast root system growing beneath the…

May 31,2023

Trees are more than just healthy branches and thick foliage—they have a vast root system growing beneath the ground. While most tree infections are easily noticed, it can be challenging for homeowners to detect root damage. Hence, hiring a professional tree care company for regular maintenance goes a long way in detecting minor signs of deterioration before things get out of hand. If your trees have Annosus root rot, delaying treatment can cause growth loss, root decay, and death. At the Sesmas Tree Service, we ensure your trees are healthy yearlong by inspecting and addressing telltale signs of infection.

A Guide to Annosus Root Rot

Hosts

Annosus root rot causes more damage in pine and fir trees, but confers and white fir are also susceptible to the fungus. As mentioned, roots grow below the ground, making detection nearly impossible for inexperienced individuals. Only a certified tree service provider can diagnose the disease, even in pines, true firs, and hemlock, where the damage is more pronounced. Although the initial stage of Annosus root rot infection doesn’t raise concerns, it is critical to address the problem immediately. Many emergency calls we get result from not detecting signs early, and that’s why we recommend hiring an expert.

Recognition

If you suspect a problem with your trees, you must schedule a consultation with a professional tree care company. The most noticeable signs of Annosus root rot include reduced growth, needle yellowing, health decline, and death. These symptoms often appear in resinous hosts like pines and should be addressed immediately. For non-resinous hosts, symptoms of infection include a white string rot or stain in the roots. Rot may exhibit black specks.

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Dead trees or stumps caused by Annosus root rot may have bracket-shaped leathery conks in crotches, hollows, or the root collar. Professional tree service providers can handle the removal of dead trees and stumps, preventing the spread of the disease to healthy trees.

Disease Spread

Annosus root rot is a fungal disease spread via spores from infected trees or stumps. Windborne spores infect healthy trees through wounds, and the cycle continues across root grafts and contacts. After the first treatment, follow-up inspections by a certified tree care company to mitigate a secondary attack by bark beetles. This is usually the case following a fungal infection and can wreak havoc in your yard.

Management

Prevention is the best cure, and in Annosus root rot, it is no exception. We urge property owners to practice safe logging and the removal of severely wounded trees. This also goes a long way to minimize decay, allowing us to salvage the tree and prevent further spreading. Tree decay associated with root rot or wounds is a common problem that affects many homeowners across the country, and that’s why we dedicate our expertise to helping stop the scourge. 

Please don’t ignore telltale signs of Annosus root rot; contact us at the Sesmas Tree Service and schedule an appointment with our certified arborists. We provide a wide range of services guaranteed to enhance the health and lifespan of your trees.

Customer Reviews

3 large Leyland Cypress trees removed near front of our home. Excellent service, professional crew, very competitive pricing for superior work! Rolando provided the initial estimate and the  follow up and was the best in terms of customer relations. I'd both use this company again AND highly recommend them.

Susan Hitchcock

This is the 2nd time we have used Sesmas Tree Service. They are a wonderful company to deal with. They were on time, professional, and very thorough. They cleaned up prior to leaving and went out of their way to protect our plants and landscaping. And they kept to their proposal with no hidden cost or add ons. Definitely a five star experience!

Gene McFadden

Wow!  I deal with tree services in my professional work and I can honestly say Sesmas is by far the most professional, best equipped, efficient, safety conscious, and communicative service I've ever encountered.  Their price was very reasonable and they even went so far as to include additional work without increasing the price.  Call them!  Now! They are very quick to respond.

Scott McLendon

We've used Sesmas several times and have always received excellent service.  Estimates are quick and easy and the crew is efficient and leaves the property clean of debris.  Recently we needed a tree removed next to a heavily landscaped area.  Sebastian went over everything with me in detail and listened to my concerns.  The crew did an excellent job in removing the tree with minimal disturbance to the surrounding area.  We are pleased and will consider them again in the future for pruning and tree removal.

Tonia Griswold

Sesmas Tree Service was amazing! I had two dead trees cut and a lot of trees that were already down on my property removed. Sebastian came out and sent the quote in writing within 24 hours. We were in the process of scheduling the service when a slot opened up sooner snd I was able to go ahead and get the work done. Everything was explained ahead of time for what to expect. The crew was very efficient and professional.  All of the work and cleanup was done in one day. I would recommend Sesmas for your tree cutting/cleanup needs.

LaDora Woods

I hired Sesmas to cut down a very tricky tree that was hanging over my house as well as a few large limbs. They did a great job and had the machinery to get the job done right.

Perry Hartman

Great experience with Sesmas. They were meticulous with my tree removal, safe and efficient. David’s communication throughout the process was much appreciated. Highly recommend!

Lindsay Ellenburg

Great experience with Sesmas Tree Service. The arborist who came out was a Board Certified Master Arborist, and you could immediately tell he knew his stuff. He took the time to explain what needed to be done, gave us clear options, and helped us feel confident from start to finish. The whole process was easy and professional. We’ll definitely use them again.

Ed Martin

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