Fungus on oak

[popewiz]

I have a fungus issue with a Q. nigra (yes, I'm in the southeastern US, hopefully you guys can still help) that has outgrown its planting site. It was planted on the upper part of a terrace within a few feet of the concrete retaining walls on 2 sides. Over time (~50 years) the roots have basically enveloped the top, and to some degree the front, of the retaining wall. On the parts of the tree that are over the retaining wall there are a number of inonotus dryadeus fruiting bodies which I have seen now for the second year (I've only live in house since last Nov.) There is no evidence of the fungus on the tree anywhere where it doesn't contact the retaining wall.

 

I'm wondering if it's possible that the fungus is only feeding on the damaged wood around the retaining wall, or if it is likely a more systemic issue. Any ideas on how I should proceed?

 

Also, I'll try to take some pictures tonight to post.

[gmanntpo]

Hi mate

 

If your consultant has a resistograph, use this to ascertain the extant of decay in the the supporting root area. A picus is great for investigating stem decay, but an'it worth jack for examining decay in roots due to the limited positions it can be placed and the way the system works..

 

If the stem is badly decayed then it's highly likely the large supproting roots will be as well! Nevertheless if the stem is sound, it does not mean that the support roots are not decayed. It is also important to consider colonisation by secondary decay fungi (Armillaria sp etc) that could add to loss of vitality and stability degradation (note: not vigour, that refers to a species, vitality refers to an individual tree's reaction to stress)

 

As it is a species not found in the UK, it is a very interesting post. I agree with other comments that I. dryadeus is generally consider slow in its decay progress in Uk Quercus sp. Nevertheless, once it has become extensive, wind throw can obviously occur..

 

Cheers mate, please keep us posted!

 

Gmann

[popewiz]

I am having a certified arborist come out on Monday to take a look. I'll let you guys know what he thinks and maybe you can critique his opinion. Thanks for all the advice.