If the apple tree secretes sap, the tree is said to be bleeding. In this article we clarify whether the phenomenon, for which there are various triggers, is dangerous for the tree and when you should take countermeasures.
Why is my apple tree bleeding?
After apruningit can happen that the apple tree bleeds a little. Another cause is the so-calledrubber flow, which can be triggeredby injuries to the bark and aggravated by invading fungi or bacteria. This disease must be treated as quickly as possible.
Why does the apple tree secrete sap after pruning?
As a rule,the supply systemof the apple tree, which directs soil water from the roots to the leaves (xylem),is responsible for this. While the sieve cells (phloem) located directly under the bark, which transport assimilate, almost always close themselves, this is not the case with the water-conducting vessels of the xylem.
Due to root pressure, water and nutrients usually flow out of the fresh cut for some time. However, this will not cause lasting damage to the apple trees.
What does bleeding from rubber flow look like?
Gum discharge, which can also affect apple trees, manifests itself assoft, lump-forming discharge,that sticks tenaciously to the bark. The tree becomes infected as early as autumn.
The causative pathogen Pseudomonas gets into the interior of the tree through bark injuries such as frost cracks or wound cuts. The causative bacteria and fungi, which primarily affect stone fruit trees in addition to the apple tree, are transmitted by the wind.
How do I recognize gum flow on the apple tree?
Bacterial fire, as the rubber flow is also called, can be clearly identified even by the layperson due to thevery noticeable damage:
- The bark becomes cracked, sinks and turns dark.
- The tree secretes a sticky liquid, the color of which is reminiscent of the resin of conifers.
- As it progresses, the bark peels off.
- When gum flow occurs as a result of Monilia tip drought, bleeding occurs at the border of he althy wood.
How to help a bleeding apple tree?
If the bleeding occurs due to a cleancutback, you usually do not need totake any countermeasures. If you haverubber flowyou should remove alldiseased plant parts:
- To prevent further spread, the cutting tool should be thoroughly disinfected.
- Also have a soil analysis carried out. Since trees that suffer from a lack of nutrients are predominantly affected, you can fertilize the apple tree as needed after the evaluation.
Tip
Apple tree sheds large pieces of bark
Depending on the variety, apple trees tend to shed large pieces of bark as they age. Unless you find signs of gum flow or pests, this is nothing to worry about. If you discover small cracks in the bark, you can treat them with a wound closure agent (€10.00 on Amazon) to protect them from invading pathogens.
