Question
Good morning Dr. Vann,
My mother has a willow in her front yard that is not blooming this year.  She has noticed that there seems to be puss forming on the top branches and the bark of the trunk is beginning to peel.  She also noticed that, at times, the bark on the trunk appears very dark.  Do you know what could be causing this?  Is there any cure?
Any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!

Answer
Hi Nicole:
The first thing that comes to my mind in your description is a bacterial infection that can affect willows called bacterial wetwood or slime flux. A liquid oozes out of bark cracks and pruning wounds.  It often gives the bark a wet and stained look.  The liquid often smells like fermentation and attracts insects. Here is a link to a bulletin that I prepared on this disease. Read about it and see if this fits your mothers' tree.

http://www.uaex.edu/Other_Areas/publications/PDF/FSA-7552.pdf

Enjoy the Spring

Regards
Steve