How to Get Rid of Mushrooms on Trees  

Mushrooms growing on trees should be a cause for concern. Some mushrooms help trees, but most of them tend to appear after the fungi that produce them have already inflicted serious internal damage to the infected tree. 

Keep reading for more information on how to get rid of mushrooms on trees, as advised by the best tree experts in Massillon, OH.  

how to get rid of mushrooms on trees

What Are Mushrooms?  

Mushrooms may look like plants, but they’re actually the fruit of a fungus that grows and thrives underground. Different varieties of mushrooms exist; some mushrooms break down organic matter to create a balance in the ecosystem, while others live off plants and trees as parasites.  

Nonetheless, all mushrooms thrive in wet and humid areas, such as overwatered areas with poor drainage. Once they form on trees, they release mushroom spores, spreading the growth further.  

Getting Rid of Mushrooms on Trees  

Getting rid of mushrooms on trees is a job best left to an arborist. An arborist will use their expertise to assess the extent of tree damage and determine whether they can save the tree. After all, nobody wants to bring down healthy plants and trees.  

In some cases, an arborist can save a tree by cutting off an infected branch. Mushrooms on a tree’s trunk, base, or roots, on the other hand, often indicate irreparable damage that calls for tree removal.  

Honey Fungus  

Yellowish-brown mushrooms growing around tree roots or at the base of your tree point to a dangerous mushroom species caused by honey fungus. These mushrooms usually grow in clusters and typically feature flat tops and a white ring around their stems.  

Infected trees exhibit the following symptoms:  

  • Small and pale leaves  
  • A sweet mushroom smell  
  • Unusually substantial flower or fruit growth  

The honey fungus attacks, decays, and eventually kills tree roots. Over time, the tree may lose stability or fall from rotting at the base. Unfortunately, you can’t treat honey fungus with a fungicide.   

Since the fungi spread underground, you’ll want to hire an arborist to inspect nearby plants to prevent a full-blown disaster. Susceptible trees include oak, birch, and fruit trees.   

Taking Preventive Measures  

Although you can’t effectively get rid of mushrooms growing on a tree, preventing them from growing in the first place goes a long way. The following practices will help you maintain healthy, fungus-free trees and make your yard less inviting for mushrooms:  

  • Avoid overwatering trees   
  • Protect tree roots from pest and disease infestation or machine damage  
  • Cut dead or diseased limbs  
  • Schedule annual tree and landscape inspections by a certified arborist  

Contact Your Local Tree Experts  

When you need quality tree solutions in Northeast Ohio, contact Petrarca Landcare for unparalleled tree services. We provide premium tree care services to keep your trees looking their best. Our services include:  

  • Tree trimming and pruning  
  • 24-hour emergency tree services  
  • Lawn care  
  • Tree removal  

Contact us at (330) 933-0562 for professional insight on how to get rid of mushrooms on trees or the best way to handle tree-eating bugs.  

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