Apple tree

[Victor]

I have to identify what is the problem with an apple tree and I thought that may be one of you gentlemen could help.

 

The bark is dying off all around the base of the trunk. The leaves came down early in spring.

 

Could this be caused by Armillaria? A willow near the apple tree was affected by honey fungus and it had to come down, but I haven't seen any fruit bodies near the apple or anywhere else.

 

Are those grey circles normal in apples? I have seen them many times...

 

Many thanks for taking the time to read this.

[Kenty]

The grey/green circles are lichen.

Has the tree sustained mechanical damage to the bark in the past?

[Victor]

Not as far as I know.

[Kenty]

I'm sure there will be more knowledgeables along to help.

[Daveyboy]

I've seen trees like that live for years - still producing fruit too! Most of what damage I saw was caused by animals like sheep and horses. So the cause may be different but the effect will be similar.

 

How's the rest of the tree? Did it give a crop this year? Canker anywhere? When was it last pruned - it should be annually. It'll need pruning in the cold of the new year anyway so i'd hang on until then and have another look.

[Peasgood]

If there is no mechanical damage it is either collar rot or crown rot. Both ultimately terminal.

[Victor]

I think it was pruned 2-3 years ago and it didn't give any fruits this year.

 

Thanks for everyone's help.