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Basal Fungal Cankers on Weeping Willow from Poor Drainage

Assessment

Red, football-shaped growths (1/2–1.5 in) on lower trunk of a 3-year-old weeping willow in Arkansas, with bark separation, indicate fungal cankers fueled by prolonged wet soil. Root rot (Phytophthora) is likely the primary issue.

Immediate Arborist Referral

Hire an ISA-certified arborist to evaluate root health, confirm pathogen, and recommend treatment (phosphonate injection, drainage improvement). Provide the arborist's findings and quote for review.

Plant Diseases: Weeping Willow with Bark Loss and Deformity: Internal Decay, Removal Advised; Weeping Willow Red Growths: Cankers, Galls, Borers - Multi-Threat Diagnosis; Weeping Willow Red Spiky Patches: Adventitious (Air) Roots, Not Borers—Harmless, Dry Up; Scale on Weeping Willow: Baking Soda Won’t Work—Use Proper Insecticide; Weeping Willow Decline: Roundup Drift vs. Borer Damage; Weeping Willow Borer Infestation: Identification and Treatment; Weeping Willow Near House & Drain: Root Concerns & Growth Regulators; Curly Willow (Corkscrew Willow): Unique Form for Year-Round Interest; Chinese Weeping Willow: History, Medicinal Uses, and Landscape Value; Dwarf Weeping Willow (Kilmarnock): Perfect for Small Gardens

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