Have you noticed your trees struggling this summer?
Maybe they are suffering a condition known as dieback.
Dieback is a general term describing the premature death
or decline of trees and other plants. Some dieback is normal, due to our extreme weather conditions – drought,
flood, fire and pest insects. But in
recent years it seems to have become more common.
Cypress trees particularly seem to be dramatically
affected by a disease called Cypress Canker.
This canker dieback is very noticeable because it usually affects a
large number of trees in a row or windbreak. Often the dieback occurs
rapidly with branches and sometimes whole trees changing colour within days.
There is currently no known cure for Cypress Canker, but
it is known that the fungi has been in Victoria for at least 50 years. It does not seem to affect other plant
families but does attack at least 25 species of conifer.
It is believed that the cypress trees have been placed
under environmental stress due to the drought, the above average rainfall and
subsequent water logging, giving the fungus spores a chance to enter through
fissures in the bark and branches. Although older trees are more susceptible but any tree that is under stress can be infected.
It is up to you to manage the cypress canker on your property. If your trees are treated early it may be possible to save the tree. If you notice any sign of dieback ensure that the affected branch or branches are pruned and disposed of properly.
More information on dieback management techniques is available on the Department of Environment and Primary Industries website More Dieback information
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