There are many fungi, such as Phymatotrichopsis omnivora, that can be very damaging to the continued health and beauty of trees in Arizona. To learn more about some common fungi found on Arizonan trees, continue reading below.

Cotton Root Rot

Cotton root rot is one of the most damaging diseases caused by the soil-borne fungus, Phymatotrichopsis omnivora. This fungus can attack thousands of plant and tree species across the southwestern United States and Mexico, making it a dangerous fungus across various landscapes. Infected plants will usually wilt during the summer, and the roots will rot and turn brown.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew typically grows on shade trees located in urban environments. There are multiple fungi that produce a powdery mildew on living trees. The fungus will usually present with a white powdery area on a tree’s infected leaves or branches. Only a trained arborist or landscaper can identify which fungus has infected the tree and advise on treatment.

Rust Diseases

Rust diseases can come from several different fungi and all have their signature symptoms. To truly understand, diagnose, and treat a rust disease, a trained landscaper should inspect the tree. This diagnosis could save the tree before the disease spreads.

Cytospora Canker

This disease is most commonly found on various fruit and shades trees throughout Arizona, though it can occur around the world. Cytospora cankers are lesions that grow larger every year. Once the infection has taken hold, the tree’s limb or trunk will soon die.

Hendersonula Toruloidea

This fungus, also known as sooty canker, will only invade trees that are already damaged. A sooty, black area will occur near a recent sunburn or pruning wound, where the fungus has invaded. The affected limb or trunk will soon wilt and die.

It is crucial to the continued health of trees and landscapes that skilled landscapers and arborists inspect diseased trees. Call the Complete Landscaping team at (520) 323-8918 for more information.