Question
We have just noticed this spring that the base of the main trunk
of our willow trees are both getting black or a lot darker than
usual.

The willows are not losing leaves but some of the smaller
branches have turned black and are dead.  I just cut them off
and burnt them.  We haven't noticed anything else.

Is this a sign to use peroxide and scrub the base of the trunk
down and then refertilize?  Or is it a sign to cut them down.

These trees are about 30 years old and beautiful.  I would hate
to destroy them if I don't have to.

Thank you in advance.
Leslie

Answer
Dear Leslie, Sorry it has taken me so long to get back with you, but your question is a bit of a puzzler and I am fighting Texas heat trying to get my house ready to paint.  I think what is going on here is that you have some sort of fungal process starting to take hold.  I am not sure exactly what the problem is, but there are several things that you can do to improve this situation.  First, I would prune out the plant to make sure there is a good airflow in the center of the plant.  Be sure to dip your pruning tools in a mixture of bleach water to disinfect.  (A little bleach in the water will do a lot of good)  Check the stems for cankers or loose bark and cut and trim all that out.  Use pruning paint if necessary to seal up the branches.  Be sure to remove the dead limbs and leaves under the tree.  Getting good circulation will do a lot of good.  I would not even think of destroying a tree that is just having smaller branches affected.  You could spray the tree with a fungicide (or use NEEM which works as a fungicide)  after you have finished cleaning up.  Keep on the lookout for borer holes around the tree.  You should spray the tree with Spinosad, an organic compound that should be available in your area, if you see any borer signs.  I have not heard of the peroxide treatment, but it might do some good.  I think that if you clear out any bad branches and remove all debris on the tree and on the ground, that your pussy willow will start to look much better.  If you have had a wet season, this often creates problems like this, and good air flow will usually improve it. I hope this information helps.  Good luck, Melissa