contraband knot is a destructive disease that specifically affect the woody tissues of plum tree and prune trees . It is triggered by a fungus promise Apiosporina morbosa . This disease is not limited to cultivated plum tree and prune trees , but can also be found on hazardous plum tree and cerise trees , as well as other Prunus coinage in the landscape painting .
The primary symptoms of dim knot can be seen on twigs , branches , and scaffold limbs of affected trees . The name “ black-market knot ” comes from the obscure , rocky , and swollen gall that form on these woody tissues . These galls can depart in size and shape , but they are ordinarily stretch and can wander from a few centimeters to several inch in distance . The galls start off as greenish - brown hump and bit by bit turn black and harden over time .
The presence of fatal naut mi can cause substantial terms to plum trees . The cheekiness can girdle and weaken branches , extend to dieback and even tree destruction if left untreated . The fungus also bring out spore , which can be spread by wind , rain , worm , and even pruning tools . This urinate the disease highly contagious and capable of spreading rapidly within an orchard or landscape painting .
control fatal knot requires a combination of cultural and chemical substance measures . Pruning is a all important facial expression of manage this disease . septic branch should be trim back to at least 4 - 6 inches below the seeable symptoms , making indisputable to desexualize pruning tools between cut to prevent further spread of the fungus . Pruning should be done during teetotal time period in late winter or former bound before the fungus releases its spores .
Fungicide applications can also be used to protect healthy trees from infection and to manage existing infections . Copper - establish fungicides are commonly used for this aim and should be applied according to the manufacturer ’s instructions .
forbid the spread of black grayback trust on good sanitation practices . septic branches and crust should be slay and destroy , either by burning or burying them deep in the ground . fall leaves and debris should also be cleaned up and discard of to reduce the overwintering potential of the fungus .
In my personal experience as a gardening and landscaping expert , I have come across several case of dark knot in plum and cerise trees . The disease can be peculiarly annihilative if get out unchecked , head to the decline and eventual going of valuable fruit trees . It is important for homeowner and orchardists to be vigilant in monitor their tree for signs of ignominious knot and to take prompt action to hold in its spread .
To summarize , black knot is a destructive disease because of the fungus Apiosporina morbosa , which affects the woody tissue of plum tree and prune trees . It can also taint furious plum and cherry trees , as well as other Prunus species in the landscape . The disease manifest as dark , jolting galls on twigs , branches , and scaffold limbs . control black naut mi involves pruning infect branches , hold fungicides , and use good sanitation . Vigilance and prompt action at law are key to managing and preventing the spread of this disease .
Caroline Bates
