Your beautiful cherry trees could be in trouble right now and you’re likely not to know about it.
In the past few years, I’ve seen many cherry trees succumb to the Cherry Bark Tortrix or CBT as
is most commonly called. Maybe some may remember the gorgeous cherry tree that use to stand in front of what use to be The Herb Farm in Fall City a few years back (Figure 1). I watched
helplessly as it slowly declined. It was my favorite of all cherry trees. Today new research has
shown that means of control like pheromone traps and cambium injections have had some levels of success.
You might first notice this destroyer of trees by the presence of die-back in sections of the
crown. Unfortunately, it will progress until your left with a dead tree. This usually takes place over 3-5 years depending on weather conditions. Upon closer examination you will see, as noted in Figure 2, appendages of fine reddish brown dust protruding from the bark. This is the result of the larvae spinning silk with its frass (bug excrement) to protect its entry hole. Figure 3 is of the
adult moth. You’re not likely to see this one as it’s usually flying to and from other trees.
Oozing sap, or Gummosis as it’s called, is often associated with CBT but is not always the case.
Other fungal infections may cause this as well. Flowering cherry trees are susceptible to many
pathogens and pest and may be difficult to manage. Proper sanitation practices are always the
first step in nurturing your tree back to good health. For a free consultation call us today!
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
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