Wood Decay and Bracket Fungi

Have you have noticed a mushroom like object growing from a limb or tree trunk?

If so, it is very likely that wood decay has already occupied the tree and now causing a hazard!

These wood-decaying fungi produce very distinctive shelf-like fruiting structures or brackets. They are most commonly found on stumps or near the base of living trees, often at the site of an old wound.

Wood-decaying fungi can occur on both coniferous and hardwood species.

These fungi degrade the lignin (the strengthening material) components of the wood and lead to reduced wood strength. The decayed areas within the tree may extend 2-3 metres above or below the fruiting bodies.

Unless confined by compartmentalization, decay fungi can invade heartwood for considerable vertical distances.

Currently, there is no control for wood decaying fungi and once a tree is infected it is only a matter of time before it fails.  In the meanwhile the tree can pose a hazard as they are very susceptible to windthrow. Often the only obvious evidence of infection is the presence of brackets (see examples).

Therefore any tree with brackets on it should be inspected immediately and removed promptly if it is in a location where property damage may occur or where people could be struck by falling limbs. 

Link to further information:

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_pmoKLxyJZM&feature=related

Call the friendly staff at Naturally Trees to arrange a safetly inspection of your trees.

Examples of Bracket Fungi fruiting body