Wetwood or slime flux
Clostridium
What is Wetwood or slime flux (Clostridium)?
Wetwood, also known as slime flux, is caused by the activity of various bacteria, including Clostridium spp., which are found in various locations such as soil and water. The symptoms of wetwood include discolored, water-soaked areas on branches or trunks, along with the exudation of sour or rancid reddish or brown fluid from bark cracks or wounds. While wetwood can cause foliage wilt and branch dieback in severe cases, it generally does not result in significant harm to the infected trees.
How does Wetwood or slime flux (Clostridium) occur?
It occurs naturally in soil and water. They infect trees through wounds, including pruning cuts, storm damage, or insect feeding sites. Once inside the tree, these microorganisms utilize the sap as a nutrient source and reproduce within the tree's vascular system. This reproductive process involves the bacteria multiplying and producing metabolic byproducts, which create pressure and stimulate the exudation of fluid from bark cracks or wounds. The exuded fluid contains a mixture of water, nutrients, and byproducts of the bacterial fermentation process.
Symptoms
1 - Impacts on plants and Soil
• Clostridium spp. primarily affects plants by causing wetwood or slime flux. While it weakens the affected area, it generally does not cause significant harm to plants. • In the soil and environment, the presence of these microorganisms is natural and has limited impacts, including localized staining, increased insect activity, and nutrient cycling.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
• Minimize bark and wood wounds through proper pruning techniques, careful construction and landscaping practices, and protection against insect feeding. • Maintain overall tree health with appropriate watering, fertilization, and regular maintenance to enhance the tree's resistance to infections. • Clean and dress wounds promptly to facilitate healing and prevent bacterial entry. • Prevent excess water pooling around the tree to minimize conditions favorable for bacterial growth.
2 - Treatment
• There is currently no known cure for wetwood once it has developed. • Focus on managing the symptoms and minimizing the impact on tree health and structural integrity. • Seek guidance from an arborist or tree care professional for specific treatment recommendations and strategies based on the severity of the condition. They may suggest additional measures like drainage systems or weep holes.
