Question
0674
The bark at the base of my tree has become dark and cracked. What could it be and what shoul I do about it?
AnswerNigel:
This looks like old mechanical injury (tools/lawnmower/other equipment) that may haved caused this. These wounds may allow disease organisms (fungus and bacteria) to gain access into the tree to allow rot to develope. This rot is often slow, yet progressive and irreversable. All you can do at this point is prevent any further injury, keep it watered and fertilized well to promote good vigorous growth. And keep equipment/tools etc away from this area.
Regards
Steve
