Dogwood anthracnose, a fungal disease caused by Discula destructiva, threatens dogwood trees, especially flowering dogwood (Cornus florida). This disease can harm landscape trees and native populations, impacting their health and ecological value. At BroadLeaf Tree & Shrub, we provide expert plant health care to protect dogwoods in Durham and surrounding areas. This guide covers what dogwood anthracnose looks like, its effects, and effective treatment strategies.
What Is Dogwood Anthracnose?
Dogwood anthracnose is a fungal disease affecting flowering dogwood and pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttallii). Caused by Discula destructiva, it thrives in wet weather, spreading through spores carried by wind or rain. The fungus persists in fallen leaves and infected twigs, posing a risk for reinfection, especially in wet spring weather.
How Does It Spread?
The disease spreads when spores land on succulent new growth during bud break. Avoid digging native trees from wild areas, as they may carry Discula destructiva, introducing it to previously disease-free landscapes. Wet weather accelerates spore dispersal, making vigilance key.
What Does Dogwood Anthracnose Look Like?
Early detection of dogwood anthracnose is critical for effective management. Look for these symptoms:
Infected leaves show small, dark brown leaf spots, often with purple borders. These spots typically appear on lower canopy branches and can lead to dead leaves or premature leaf drop.
Dying twigs and stem cankers—sunken, discolored areas on branches—are common signs. In severe cases, fruiting structures erupt from cankers, spreading the fungus further.
Advanced dogwood anthracnose can affect the entire tree, causing significant leaf drop and overall decline. This is especially damaging to natural populations in eastern North America.
Impact on Dogwood Trees and Ecosystems
Dogwood anthracnose affects both landscape trees and native trees like flowering dogwood. These trees are prized for their blooms and ecological role, supporting wildlife. The disease causes:
Aesthetic Damage: Leaf spots and dead leaves reduce visual appeal.
Ecological Loss: Declining dogwoods disrupt food sources for birds and wildlife.
Tree Mortality: Stressed trees in shaded or wet areas are at higher risk of death.
How to Treat Dogwood Anthracnose
Effective treatment combines cultural practices, tree care, and professional intervention. Here’s how to manage it:
Cultural Practices
Cultural Practices
Clear Debris: Remove fallen leaves from the root zone to reduce fungal spread. Use composted mulch to suppress spores.
Prune Carefully: Remove infected twigs and stem cankers during dry periods. Dispose of pruned material to prevent reinfection.
Manage Water Sprouts: Water sprouts are highly susceptible to infection. Prune them to protect the tree.
Promote Tree Health
Promote Tree Health
Healthy trees resist dogwood anthracnose better. Support vigor by:
Watering during extended dry periods.
Applying composted mulch to the root zone for moisture retention.
Avoiding stress from improper planting or digging native trees.
Professional Treatments
Professional Treatments
For severe cases, certified arborists at BroadLeaf Tree & Shrub may apply fungicides during bud break to protect new growth. Contact us for a tailored treatment plan.
Plant Resistant Varieties
Plant Resistant Varieties
Consider kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa), redosier dogwood, or tatarian dogwood, which are less prone to Discula destructiva. These are ideal for replacing affected trees.
FAQ
Does Dogwood Anthracnose Go Away on Its Own?
Does Dogwood Anthracnose Go Away on Its Own?
Dogwood anthracnose rarely resolves without intervention. The fungus lingers in fallen leaves and stem cankers, reinfecting trees during wet weather. Proactive management is essential to prevent severe damage.
What is the best treatment for dogwood anthracnose?
What is the best treatment for dogwood anthracnose?
Combine debris removal, pruning infected twigs, and composted mulch with professional fungicide applications if needed. Planting resistant varieties like kousa dogwood helps prevent future issues.
Can dogwood anthracnose be prevented?
Can dogwood anthracnose be prevented?
Yes, through regular inspections, debris cleanup, and proper tree care. Avoiding water sprouts and maintaining tree vigor in wet weather reduces risk.
How does dogwood anthracnose affect ecosystems?
How does dogwood anthracnose affect ecosystems?
It disrupts natural populations of flowering dogwood, reducing biodiversity and wildlife food sources in eastern North America.
Contact BroadLeaf Tree & Shrub For Expert Tree Care
For expert tree care services in Durham and the surrounding area, contact BroadLeaf Tree & Shrub. We provide professional tree removal, tree pruning, and plant health care services to residents in Durham and the surrounding areas including Apex, Holly Springs, Cary, and nearby areas. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation, discuss your tree or shrub needs, and discuss a tailored quote for your needs—just fill out the form below.
