Discoloration of the branches or wilted, brown leaves indicate illness in the willow. Mushrooms are often the trigger. Fortunately, the deciduous trees recover from the infestation with the help of appropriate measures. However, the prerequisite for this is that you interpret the symptoms correctly and act quickly and specifically. On this page you will acquire helpful knowledge to effectively combat parasites.
What should you do if there is a fungal infection on pastures?
A pasture fungal infestation is manifested by discoloration of the branches, wilted or brown leaves and can be caused by Marssonina disease, Anise Tramete, Anthracnose, Redden Tramete or Sulfur Porling. Measures such as thinning out the crown, cutting back affected branches and collecting leaves support regeneration.
Common fungal diseases
- Marssonina disease
- Anis Tramete
- Anthracnose
- Redging Tramete
- Sulphur Porling
Marssonina disease
Marssonina salicicola, the fungus that transmits Marssonina disease to pasture, feels extremely comfortable in damp weather and warm temperatures. To the chagrin of many gardeners, it is also very cold-resistant and therefore likes to overwinter on the deciduous tree. In spring the fungus multiplies and causes the following symptoms:
- dark necrosis, about 3mm in size, on the leaves
- crippled leaves
- dried leaves
- premature leaf shedding
- Tip drought (dying of the shoot tip)
- Bushes in the dead areas
Numerous species of silver willow and hanging willow are particularly susceptible to the fungus. By thinning out the crown, you improve air circulation and eliminate the humidity that is favorable for the fungus. You should cut back affected branches severely. As a preventative measure, you should always collect fallen leaves.
Anis Tramete
If you smell a strong smell of anise near your pasture, the fungus Trametes suaveolens has probably taken root. Its symptoms only appear on the trunk of the tree. It deposits its fruiting bodies on the wood in the winter months of December and January and causes white rot. To be sure that it is the fungus mentioned, you should consult an expert. This can give you helpful tips for treatment.
Anthracnose
This fungus attacks willow leaves and branches. The following symptoms indicate an infestation:
- brown spots on the leaves
- Bark lesions on young shoots
Redging trametes
If the tree trunk and the branches of the willow have brown, flat fruiting bodies, you must assume that there is an infestation of the reddening trametes. In particular, superficial injuries such as pressure points in the wood promote the outbreak of the disease.
Sulphur Porling
You can recognize this mushroom by orange or yellow spots on the trunk and branches of the willow