You've probably seen chestnuts with brown leaves in the middle of summer. These trees are definitely not he althy. The horse chestnut leaf miner is usually responsible for this. But other diseases and pests can also be fatal to a chestnut.
Which diseases most often threaten the sweet chestnut?
The most common diseases of sweet chestnuts are chestnut bark cancer, ink disease, chestnut moth and chestnut borer. A suitable location, balanced nutrient supply and resistant varieties help preventively when planting.
Which diseases most often threaten the chestnut?
The chestnut bark cancer manifests itself in bark that turns reddish and later cracks. It is caused by a very aggressive fungus and has already destroyed entire populations. That's why bark canker is probably the most dangerous disease in sweet chestnuts. Trees whose bark is already damaged or injured are particularly at risk.
Ink disease is particularly common on sweet chestnuts that are in moist, impermeable soil. It is caused by fungi that invade the roots and cut off the supply of water. This causes the leaves to wilt and parts of the crown can die. A dark liquid comes out of the trunk in some places, giving the disease its name.
The fruits themselves, the chestnuts, can also be attacked by pests, namely the chestnut borer or the chestnut moth. The chestnut borer is a small weevil that eats chestnuts from the inside. The chestnut moth deposits its larvae in the fruit.
How can I protect my chestnut from diseases?
The best protection against various diseases or pest infestation is still a well-suited location and proper care. Plant your chestnut in a warm, sunny spot with slightly acidic, humus-rich soil. Use a potassium-containing fertilizer (€43.00 on Amazon) to ensure a balanced supply of nutrients and prevent the plant from standing there with wet feet for too long.
If there is an infestation with the dreaded chestnut bark cancer, the sweet chestnuts can now be vaccinated with the help of a less aggressive fungus. It helps against the chestnut moth to place a belt made of corrugated cardboard around the trunk. It is best to look for a resistant variety that is suitable for your region before buying a chestnut.
The most common diseases of sweet chestnuts:
- Chestnut bark crab
- Ink Disease
- Chestnut Moth
- Chestnut borer
Tip
If you have just decided to plant one or, better yet, several sweet chestnuts, then it is best to choose resistant varieties.
