The bald cypress tree is a hardy plant with a fighting spirit that can thrive in USDA Agriculture plant hardiness zones from 5 – 10. Most gardeners and horticulturists will find that this tree is easy to take care of and rarely runs into plant problems involving pests, fungal diseases, and environmental conditions. If your bald cypress plant is not thriving, find out why your bald cypress tree is turning brown.
Bald cypress trees are prized for their graceful form and feathery foliage. However like all trees, they can be susceptible to fungal diseases that detract from their beauty. If your bald cypress is showing signs of fungus prompt action is needed to restore its health. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover how to identify, treat, and prevent fungal problems on bald cypress trees.
Common Fungal Diseases of Bald Cypresses
Several types of fungi can infect bald cypress trees including
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Phytophthora root rot – Causes roots to decay leading to stunting and death. Signs include wilting leaves and thinning canopy.
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Powdery mildew – Covers leaves in white powdery growth, inhibiting photosynthesis.
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Cankers – Forms sunken lesions on bark which can ooze sap and damage tree.
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Needle blight – Discolors and kills needles which drop prematurely. Weakens tree defenses.
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Rust – Causes bright yellow/orange blisters on leaves and stems which affects growth.
How to Identify a Fungal Infection
Be on the lookout for these possible signs of fungal disease:
- Discolored or spotted leaves/needles
- Premature leaf drop
- White powdery coating on leaves
- Sunken dark areas on bark
- Oozing lesions or sap flow
- Dieback of branches
- Poor, stunted growth
Act promptly at first symptoms to limit damage.
Treating an Existing Fungal Infection
If your bald cypress already shows signs of fungus, here are some treatment steps:
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Prune out infected parts – Cut off affected leaves/branches 6″ below signs. Disinfect tools between cuts.
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Improve air flow – Selectively thin inner canopy to dry out fungus hot spots.
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Apply fungicide sprays – Use targeted products containing chlorothalonil, copper, or sulfur. Follow label directions.
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Boost overall health – Ensure proper water, fertilizer, and ample sunlight to support recovery.
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Monitor progress – Continue to inspect tree closely and re-treat as needed until fungus cleared.
Preventing Fungal Disease
Being proactive is key to keeping bald cypress trees fungus-free. Try these prevention tips:
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Choose disease-resistant variety – Select cultivars less prone to fungal issues.
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Allow ample spacing – Prevent overcrowding to encourage air circulation.
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Prune selectively – Remove dead wood and promote open canopy.
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Water carefully – Avoid wetting foliage; use soaker hoses. Let soil dry between waterings.
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Promote optimal growth – Provide ideal sun exposure, fertile soil, and balanced feeding.
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Apply preventive spray – Use Neem oil or sulfur early in season before fungus appears.
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Boost defenses – Use plant probiotics and compost tea to increase natural immunity.
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Remove leaf litter – Rake up fallen debris to eliminate inoculum source.
Restore Your Tree’s Vibrant Beauty
Catching fungal diseases early and integrating organic care techniques can help protect your bald cypress tree’s health and maintain its striking form. Monitor closely for symptoms, prune wisely, feed carefully, and utilize targeted sprays as needed to nourish your tree back to its vigorous, fungus-free state. A thriving bald cypress tree is well worth the effort!
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The bald cypress tree is a hardy plant with a fighting spirit that can thrive in USDA Agriculture plant hardiness zones from 5 – 10. Most gardeners and horticulturists will find that this tree is easy to take care of and rarely runs into plant problems involving pests, fungal diseases, and environmental conditions. If your bald cypress plant is not thriving, find out why your bald cypress tree is turning brown.
Removing fungus on trees
FAQ
How do you get rid of fungus on cypress trees?
What is the fungus on my bald cypress tree?
What is the disease in the bald cypress tree?
How do you treat cypress trees turning brown?
How do I get rid of bald cypress fungal disease?
Trees completely ravished by a fungal disease will find little assistance with fungicidal treatments. Controlling bald cypress fungal diseases involves protecting the tree with maintenance. Pruning and thinning of the smaller bald cypress will help to increase the light penetration and air circulation throughout the tree.
How do you get rid of Cypress fungal disease?
Tools can spread the fungal disease. Dip the pruning tools in rubbing alcohol or a solution of one part chlorine bleach to nine parts water. Clean and oil each tool after bleaching to prevent rust. Spray with fungicide. For most cypress fungal diseases, fungicide will be ineffective.
Do cypress trees have fungal infections?
However, cypress trees suffer from a few types of deadly fungal infections, namely the fungal disease Seiridium canker (Seridium unicorne). Dark brown or purple blotches form on stems, branches and bark. Fallen twigs turn bright red and copper, signs of the deadly fungus in the living tree.
What is brown pocket rot on a bald cypress tree?
Brown pocket rot is a fungal disease that infects the bald cypress through its crown. As this fungal disease penetrates the foliage, it enters the trunk and infects the heartwood. The heartwood becomes hollowed with spotted decay and the tree eventually dies. The bald cypress is also susceptible to twig blight.