Sulphur Tuft on Castanea sativa

[Rowan the Bruce]

Just looked at a mature S.Chestnut with a ring of sulphur tuft fruiting bodies around it (no pics i'm afraid) they were emerging from the roots and collar. As this is a saprotrophic fungi and not parasitic I'm wondering if it is a secondary infection on roots that are mush or if there is nothing to worry about. The tree is on its own, the crown seems ok with only minor deadwood, there are some targets i.e. hotel,staff,tourists etc

 

Any info would be good as I've not really come across this one before.

[monkeypuzzle22]

I would say that if a dead wood saprophyte is present on the roots/root collar that it is likely that some decay is present, and that a 'ring' would suggest the roots within the upper proportion of the soil may have been affected. This could be an issue within a high target area.

 

Were the mushrooms of sulphur tuft for sure? But suggestions would be to monitor, possible further inspection through air spading etc, depending on client budget etc, or to carry out remedial treatment if you feel neccessary i.e. reduce wind loading or crown weight....

 

Hope that helps...

[Will Hinchliffe]

The next logical step is a root collar excavation to assess the buttress and roots.

[Rowan the Bruce]

yeah thanks for the info, root excavation may be required before any remedial action is taken, as its in a conservation area a council Tree officer will help to make a decision on the outcome.

 

Oh definately Sulphur Tuft, unmistakable.

Edited November 25, 2008 by Rowan the Bruce