Canker stain (Ceratocystis canker)
Ceratocystis fimbriata
Also Known As - Ceratocystis canker (Canker stain)What is Ceratocystis canker (Ceratocystis fimbriata)?
Sycamore canker stain, caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata f. sp. platani, is a fungal disease affecting Sycamore and London plane trees (Platanus spp.). Infected trees exhibit a sparse canopy, and chlorotic leaves, and develop elongated cankers with a sunken, dark, flattened appearance on limbs and trunks. The dark bluish-black discoloration is observed in the cambium, phloem, and sapwood. The disease can lead to tree death within 1 or 2 years.
How does Ceratocystis canker (Ceratocystis fimbriata) occur?
Canker stain, caused by Ceratocystis fimbriata f. sp. platani, primarily occurs through human-induced injuries or mechanical wounds to trees. The fungus produces sticky spores that remain infective for a month or more, facilitating spread through contaminated tools and equipment, such as pruning saws. Additionally, natural root grafts between infected trees and nearby hosts can contribute to disease transmission.
Symptoms
1 - Plants Health
• Ceratocystis fimbriata has a detrimental impact on plants, particularly trees. Infected trees experience a rapid decline, characterized by wilting, branch dieback, and eventual death within 1-2 years. • The disease also leads to the development of a sparse canopy, with small, chlorotic leaves that impair the tree's vigor and hinder photosynthesis, hampering its ability to produce energy and further compromising its overall health.
2 - Impacts on Soil
• The decomposition of infected trees disrupts nutrient cycling, causing changes in soil nutrient dynamics. • Additionally, the presence of the pathogen can have implications for soil microbial communities, potentially affecting the overall functioning of the soil ecosystem.
3 - Impact on Environment
• The death of trees leads to reduced canopy cover, affecting microclimate and sunlight exposure. • This loss of habitat and food sources has implications for wildlife, insects, and other plants reliant on the affected trees. • Furthermore, the removal and replacement costs, along with the impact on property values, affect both urban and natural areas.
Solutions
1 - Cultural Practices
• Prevent bark injuries from lawnmowers and string trimmers. • Keep soil bare or use mulch near trunks to avoid damage. • Proper irrigation encourages deeper root growth. • Promptly remove infected trees and dispose of wood away from healthy trees. • Trench around stumps to prevent root grafts between infected and healthy trees. • Send samples of freshly infected wood to a diagnostic laboratory.
2 - Avoid Unnecessary Pruning and Tool Sanitization
• Minimize pruning except for hazardous limbs or dead trees. • Prune during dry weather in December and January. • Clean tools with detergent and water after pruning or tree maintenance. • Soak tools in a 10-20% bleach solution. Note: Chemical control methods have shown limited effectiveness against Canker Stain. Sanitation and cultural practices are key for disease management.
Susceptible Species
FAQ
Do shade growing plants need any Sunlight?
Shade growing plants do need sunlight, although they require less than other plants. They need some direct sunlight each morning to help them photosynthesize and grow properly. Also, indirect sunlight throughout the day helps them stay healthy. Shade growing plants will benefit from the sunshine, but if they get too much or too little, then they can suffer the consequences. It's important to pay attention to the needs of your plants so that you can provide them with the proper light for optimal growth.
How often should you water indoor plants?
Indoor plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to a depth of about two inches, usually about once a week. A helpful technique to determine your plants' watering needs is to feel the soil before and after watering to get a sense of how long it takes to dry out. An important note to remember is that some plants require less water than others, and it's best to research the specific needs of your individual plants. Likewise, if your home is very dry, you might need to water more often as the lack of moisture can stress the plants and lead to problems like brown leaves and wilted stems.
Can my monstera plant get root rot?
Yes, a plant can get root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by over-watering, poor soil drainage, or high humidity levels in the air. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting and stunted growth, and damaged or browning root systems. Sometimes it is difficult to detect root rot until the plant is removed from the soil, as the problems are mainly below the soil surface. Treating root rot usually involves removing the affected parts of the plant and replanting the unaffected ones.
Can I put my Monstera outside in summer?
No, you should not put your Monstera outside in summer. Monstera plants need warm, humid air to thrive, and direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Instead, put your Monstera in a bright, sunny spot with indirect light, making sure the sun never directly hits the leaves. During the summer, keep your Monstera's soil damp and mist it occasionally to keep the leaves hydrated. At nighttime, keep the temperature around 16 - 21°C (60 - 70°F). You can definitely take your Monstera outdoors for short periods of time, just make sure to bring it back in if it starts to get too hot.
What happens if my monstera plant gets too cold?
If your monstera plant gets too cold, it will become vulnerable to pests, disease, or other damage. Cold temperatures can damage the leaves of the plant, causing them to become spotted or limp. The roots of monstera plants may also suffer in cold temperatures, leading to root rot or other diseases. Belonging to the tropical family, monsteras are used to warm environments and do not do well in cold temperatures, so it is important to ensure your plant is kept in conditions that suit their needs.
Is it possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space?
Yes, it is possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space. Gardening in a small space can be as simple as growing a few containerized plants in pots and raised beds, or as elaborate as vertically stacking planters, hanging pouches, and hanging baskets on a wall, railing, or fence. Regardless of the size of the space you are working with, some simple techniques such as companion planting, organic fertilizers, and water conservation can help you get the most out of your small vegetable garden.
Is peppermint herb green good for digestion?
Peppermint herb is indeed beneficial for digestion. The flavonoids in the herb support digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive track, aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion, heartburn, and even the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint is naturally rich in menthol, which helps to relax the muscles of the stomach, aiding in the digestion of food. Peppermint herb can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules, as well as by adding the herb to food or directly to water or tea.
Should peppermint herb green be consumed daily?
No, peppermint herb green should not be consumed daily. This is because it contains high levels of menthol, which can be toxic if taken in large doses. Additionally, consuming large amounts of peppermint herb green could interfere with the absorption of essential minerals and vitamins, potentially causing vitamin deficiencies. For these reasons, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating peppermint herb green into your daily diet.
