Mature beech fungus - help please

[Ludanella]

Hi

We have a mature beech tree which is over 90 years old. The tree has 2 smooth, white fungal growths on the trunk. If at all possible, we want to keep the tree.

Initial advice we have had is that the tree has to go. To use this is unthinkable. We would like to see if there are any alternatives.

Any advice gratefully received.

Thanks in advance.

Nicky

[sloth]

Looks like a young Ganoderma, though too early to guess at the species. Without more photos of the tree and its form (or even better in person) it's impossible to give good advice. I'd be surprised if it 'must' go, maybe someones log pile is getting low - there are almost always alternatives to felling!

 

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[Chris at eden]

Probably a young Ganoderma bracket. Ultimately the stem will decay and snap during winds but this could take years, or not. Get it looked at by a consultant properly to see if it can be retained safely. Basic inspection would include sounding with a mallet to see if there is an audible change indicating cavity. If you are willing to spend you could get it checked with a Picus which uses ultrasound to determine the extent of decay.

 

If you retain it you will need to have it monitored regularly. What would it hit if it fell?

[Ludanella]

Hi

Thanks for your replies. The tree seems otherwise healthy. It is close to houses if it does fall. The growths at present are not very large.

Will pass on the information as the tree belongs to my parents.

It has in the past had it's crown reduced and some branches cut back.

Nicky

[Paul Barton]

Whereabouts is the tree? You may find someone on here to come and inspect the tree for your parents.

[Ludanella]

The tree is at Scarborough, North Yorks.