Monitoring the rate of decay in a Mature Beech with Ganoderma

[Steve Bullman]

I carried out a Picus test yesterday on a mature Beech tree with a large Ganoderma bracket. The tree was previously tested 6 years ago and the client wanted to know if the decay has progressed. Interested to view the results of the tests together. You can see the area covered by the decay hasn't extended by a great margin, however the decay has increased significantly in the already affected area.

 

This first test was carried out November 2013

 

Second test, July 2019

 

The tree has been regularly reduced in light of the decay present. With the ongoing maintenance of the tree along with a significant buttress root formation I believe this tree can continue to stand for a few more years to come as yet.

Contact me if you are interested in Picus testing. Based in Suffolk but prepared to travel for multiple tests. 

 

[email protected] or 07801 923740

 

few images of the tree

 

[Mike Hill]

Is there a limit as to the diameter  of the trunk you can do a Picus test on?

 

 

[Steve Bullman]

I don’t believe so. You are limited by the amount of sensors you have but even then you can set them up in different configurations. I’m not sure if readings become less accurate the further the sound waves have to travel though. Good question 

[Andrew McEwan]

What was the difference in dbh between the two visits Steve? And how many reductions?

[Steve Bullman]

Only 1cm bit that’s on the assumption the guy who did it last time was accurate.

 

one of us was out on the position of north that’s for sure ?

[Steve Bullman]

Trees has 2 reductions that I know of 

[Stubby]

5 hours ago, Steve Bullman said:

I carried out a Picus test yesterday on a mature Beech tree with a large Ganoderma bracket. The tree was previously tested 6 years ago and the client wanted to know if the decay has progressed. Interested to view the results of the tests together. You can see the area covered by the decay hasn't extended by a great margin, however the decay has increased significantly in the already affected area.

 

This first test was carried out November 2013

 

Second test, July 2019

 

The tree has been regularly reduced in light of the decay present. With the ongoing maintenance of the tree along with a significant buttress root formation I believe this tree can continue to stand for a few more years to come as yet.

Contact me if you are interested in Picus testing. Based in Suffolk but prepared to travel for multiple tests. 

 

[email protected] or 07801 923740

 

few images of the tree

 

I would be more interested in anything going on in the root system . Can you test that Steve ? . I have seen them go over in a blow with not much decay in the stick but destroyed roots .

Edited July 17, 2019 by Stubby

[Steve Bullman]

Yeah you could, if the roots are exposed use a resistograph 

[Steve Bullman]

This tree has been condemned today. Latest Picus test has shown a massive increase in the decay which has also entered into the roots. All roots around the decayed area show severe audible sounds of decay using a sounding hammer. Lots of fresh Ganoderama brackets at various heights also.

 

 

 

[Dan Maynard]

Really interesting, thanks. Tree won an extra 10 years then.