Sugar Maple Northern Tooth Fungus: Emergency Branch Removal Protocol

Dana discovered Northern Tooth Fungus growing high on a branch of a large sugar maple and asked if removing the infected branch could save the tree.

Urgent Action Required

Melissa emphasized immediate action: cut the infected branch now and remove it from the property entirely.

Surgical Removal Protocol

1. Cut at least 1 foot below visible fungus
2. Inspect wood cross-section: infected wood shows white interior with potential black streaks
3. Continue cutting back until no white discoloration remains
4. Seal wound with quality pruning paint
5. Seal any other bark wounds found

Advanced Infection Scenario

If white discoloration extends to the branch base/trunk junction, the disease has progressed significantly. Options:

• Seal and monitor—tree may provide several more years
• Remove entirely if structural hazard develops

Prognosis

Early detection offers the best chance. Sugar maples are valuable landscape trees worth aggressive intervention. The key is removing all infected wood before the fungus reaches the main trunk.