Question

tree   QUESTION: I have a tree that has red berries on it in summer ...I live in TX where the drought was really bad last summer this year I have noticed the tree has black spots and bark is falling off this year I see new branches but a lot of dead branches. Can I save the tree  and what can I treat it with to turn this problem around

ANSWER: shhela:

I do not recognize the name of the tree from your photo.  I am afraid the size and quality of the image does not reveal too much detail.  I do see what looks to be a spitting of the bark in the center of the trunk.  This may be evidence of internal decay.  This may cause the tree to loose it bark.  The black area may represent a disease called Hypoxylon.  Unfortunately, there is no magic bullet for these kinds of problems.  Preventions is the best thing.  Good water regimes, especially during hot/dry periods is helpful in prevention.  Also, avoiding wounds on the trunk is helpful too. Internal decay can weaken the tree structurally, causing it to fail eventually, especially during a wind storm.  Removal, at some point so as to avoid damage to person or property may be something to consider especially if dead branches continue to increase.

Regards
Steve


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frt tree   QUESTION: Thanks Steve going to attempt to send you another picture hope it is a better shot of the pbl going on but if you think that this pbl can not be resolved then it goes this weekend  this is a tree that shades some of the house I had a gas leak about 3 yrs ago ago by this tree and I did not know if this was some of the same pbl thank  you

Answer
Shela:
This is a type of holly, maybe American holly.  The black area does indeed look like the fungus Hypoxylon.  It has a hard,flat and crusty appearance- like tar.  It is classified as an opportunistic fungus, that is it usually attacks an already weakened tree. Not sure what role that the gas leak played.  I suspect that this problem may have been ongoing for more than 3 years.  Removing the tree is a personal decision.  It is a best judgement call- that is when do you think it is starting to look hazardous. When there is an abundance of dead and falling branches can help you make that decision.  Another option for you to consider is to contact a local tree service or the Texas Forest Service and request an evaluation.  For the tree service, be sure they have a certified arborist on staff to do this evaluation.  These folks have studied and taken tests on proper tree care etc.

Here is a link below to an information bulletin that I prepared on this disease. Over time, it will enlarge.  You may wish also to use "Google Images" to see some more photos of this fungus.  It can also be gray or brown colored.

http://www.uaex.edu/Other_Areas/publications/PDF/FSA-7557.pdf

Regards
Steve