{"id":225440,"date":"2024-01-05T16:41:30","date_gmt":"2024-01-05T16:41:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bristoltreeservices.co.uk\/?p=225440"},"modified":"2024-01-05T16:41:30","modified_gmt":"2024-01-05T16:41:30","slug":"canker-explained","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bristoltreeservices.co.uk\/tree-surgery-glossary\/canker-explained\/","title":{"rendered":"Canker Explained"},"content":{"rendered":"
Canker is a term commonly used in the field of tree surgery to refer to a type of plant disease characterized by areas of dead tissue, which grow slowly over time. This disease can significantly affect the health and longevity of trees, making it a critical subject for tree surgeons and arborists. Understanding the nature, causes, symptoms, and treatment of canker<\/a> is essential for anyone involved in tree care and management.<\/span><\/p>\n While the term ‘canker’ might seem straightforward, it encompasses a wide range of specific conditions and symptoms. These conditions can vary greatly depending on the type of tree affected, the specific pathogen involved, and the environmental conditions. This article aims to provide a comprehensive and detailed overview of canker, exploring its many facets and complexities.<\/span><\/p>\n In the simplest terms, a canker is a localized area of dead tissue<\/a> on a tree or plant. This dead tissue is often caused by a fungal or bacterial infection, which interferes with the plant’s ability to transport nutrients and water. Over time, the canker can grow, causing further damage to the plant and potentially leading to its death.<\/span><\/p>\n However, it’s important to note that not all cankers are caused by pathogens. Some cankers can be the result of physical damage, such as a wound from pruning or a broken branch. These cankers are often referred to as ‘abiotic’ or ‘non-infectious’ cankers, to distinguish them from the infectious cankers caused by pathogens.<\/span><\/p>\n There are many different types of canker, each with its own specific causes and symptoms. Some of the most common types include Nectria canker, Cytospora canker, and Phytophthora canker. These cankers are named after the specific pathogen that causes them, and they can affect a wide range of tree species.<\/span><\/p>\n For example, Nectria canker is caused by the fungus Nectria galligena, and it often affects hardwood trees like maple, birch, and beech. Cytospora canker, on the other hand, is caused by the fungus Cytospora chrysosperma, and it’s commonly found on spruce and poplar trees. Phytophthora canker is caused by various species of the Phytophthora fungus, and it can affect a wide range of trees and shrubs.<\/span><\/p>\n The causes of canker are varied and complex<\/a>, involving a combination of biological, environmental, and physical factors. At the most basic level, cankers are caused by an injury to the tree’s bark, which allows a pathogen to enter and establish an infection. This injury can be caused by a variety of factors, including pruning, insect damage, or environmental stress.<\/span><\/p>\n Once the pathogen has entered the tree, it begins to break down the plant’s tissue, creating a canker. The pathogen continues to grow and reproduce, spreading the infection to other parts of the tree. Over time, the canker can grow large enough to girdle the tree, disrupting its ability to transport nutrients and water, and potentially leading to its death.<\/span><\/p>\nDefinition of Canker<\/span><\/h2>\n
Types of Canker<\/span><\/h3>\n
Causes of Canker<\/span><\/h2>\n
Role of Pathogens<\/span><\/h3>\n