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Black Trunk on Quaking Aspen: Need Photos for Diagnosis

A mature aspen with a blackened trunk from ground up—but no similar symptoms on nearby trees—could be sooty canker, Cytospora canker, or fire damage. The tree's overall vigor (leaf retention, branch dieback) matters.

What to Provide

Photo of trunk from 10–15 feet away, in focus.
Tree height and age estimate.
Whether leaves dropped early or branches are dying.

With images, a more specific diagnosis and management plan can be given.

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