The call “Help, my vinegar tree is dying!” is almost never heard. But often: “Help, when will my vinegar tree finally die?” Hmm, wrong garden world, it seems. But anyone who has been confronted with its enormous urge to spread knows why that is.
What causes a vinegar tree to die?
The vinegar tree has little to do with diseases and pests. Thewater balanceis usually to blame for the loss. In winter, unprotectedpotted specimens can freeze to deathAInfestation with honey fungus is also dangerous Unwanted vinegar trees are removed mechanically with great effort or destroyed with herbicides.
How much water does the vinegar tree need?
Mature vinegar trees in the garden provide themselves with water. Their extensive root system helps them in this. Young plantsneed water in the first few years if the weather is dry and hot for a long time. A vinegar tree cultivated in a pot needsevenly moist soil However, the vinegar tree reacts sensitively to waterlogging, which can also cause it to die.
How do I protect my vinegar tree from frost?
If the vinegar tree (Rhus typhina), also known as deer butt sumac, grows in the garden soil, it is sufficiently hardy and therefore does not need any frost protection. However, a tree growing in a pot is at risk of frost. This is how it can survive the winter:
- don't overwinter warmly
- cool shed, garage or garden shed are ideal
- low temperatures below zero are allowed
- place on Styrofoam
- Wrap the pot with fleece
- Cover the soil with a layer of leaves
- water something every now and then
How can I take action against honey fungus on the vinegar tree?
Unfortunately the infected tree cannot be saved. It will continue to atrophy and eventually die. Don't wait until that happens. Remove the infected vinegar tree from the garden as soon as possible so that the fungus cannot spread further. The good news is: This situation rarely occurs because the vinegar tree is not very susceptible. With regular mulching and proper care, you can significantly reduce the risk of an infestation.
How do I remove a vinegar tree mechanically?
Cut off the above-ground parts of the plant. RodenThen remove the rhizome. You should alsoremove soil within a radius of several meters, as the vinegar tree has branched shallow roots and tends to form many root runners for the purpose of propagation. If you want to plant a vinegar tree again, it is a good decision because it is valuable to bees. But be sure to use a root barrier.
Tip
The vinegar tree is said to be sensitive to lime
There are reports that high lime content in the soil can severely weaken a vinegar tree and even cause it to die. If you love your vinegar tree, keep an eye on the pH value.
