Plant Canker Damage

Canker is a disease that damages the woody tissues responsible for transporting water and nutrients through the plant. Symptoms can appear similar to root rot, but canker damage is usually more localized.

When affecting trees, cankers may cause dieback along a branch or, if located on the trunk, can lead to overall decline. The active pathogen may be either bacterial (most commonly fire blight) or fungal.

Plants Commonly Affected

Many plants are susceptible to canker disease, including:

• Fruit trees

• Roses

• Leyland cypress

• Common ornamental shrubs
  

Signs of Plant Canker

• Sunken, discolored sections on branches

• Oozing wounds on bark or stems
  

How to Treat It

There is no chemical treatment for plant canker. The only effective method is to prune out the infected branches, making your cut 1½ to 2 inches below the canker.

Important guidelines for pruning:

• Only prune when conditions are dry

• Sterilize pruning shears after each cut using a solution of 1 part bleach to 3 parts water

• Be careful not to damage surrounding branches or the trunk

• Watch for branches rubbing together, which can spread the disease
  

Ongoing Support

Our tree and shrub care program helps minimize stress caused by insects and disease. We also promote overall plant health and vigor with proper fertilization.

If you have any questions or concerns about plant cankers or your landscape in general, please don’t hesitate to reach out.