[Arid_gardener] Ash tree question

[Cathy.Rymer at chandleraz.gov]

Hi Rita and Tim,

Thanks for your question.  The symptoms you describe match a fungal 
disease known as Ganoderma.  It affects the root system of the tree and 
this time of year enters its reproductive phase and produces the 
mushroom-like growths you see at the base of your tree. 

We moved into a home three years ago which has a large, 28 year old 
Arizona Ash tree under flood irrigation.  Two summers ago it developed a 
'varnish fungi' at the base of the tree typical of Ganoderma.  I removed 
the fungi and sent it to Dr. Mary Olsen, Plant Pathologist for the 
University of Arizona who confirmed my suspicions.  There are photos of 
the tree and fungal growth at 
http://ag.arizona.edu/PLP/plpext/diseases/trees/Ash/Ganoderma.htm.    Last 
year, two growths appeared and this year they are back again.  At this 
point the tree's appearance looks fairly good.  It does develop some 
branch tip dieback from time to time and seems to be more vulnerable to 
wind damage.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Ganoderma root rot.  Your tree could 
live for several more years or decline suddenly.  Details are available on 
the U of A website above or at 
http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74109.html

I hope this helps.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

Cathy Rymer
Certified Arborist
Master Gardener

>>>>>>>
Rita and Tim Mathis
85021
ritam7802 at yahoo.com

I have called and left messages and Judy called me back and thought our 
problem could be "ash decline"
The large ash tree has yellowing-brown leaves and are falling. There are 
still some green branches, there are very small yellow spots on the green 
leaves. It was treated for sooty canker about five years ago and responded 
well. Could it be the emerald borer or an insect of some kind, I cannot 
visualize any. We get irrigation every two weeks so I don't think watering 
would be an issue. It does have a large mushroom growing at the base. Any 
help you can give us would be greatly appreciated.
Rita & Time Mathis
7802 N. 3rd Avenue
(just south of Northern)
602-997-1841

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