Pest on Parrotia Persica (Persian Ironwood)

11 years ago

I have a 13' Parrotia Persica planted 3 years ago. It was doing well until this year - now the tree is looking limp and has some leaf discoloration (even though it is July). Upon closer inspection, several small branches have tufts of inner wood protruding through the bark in a linear trail - and actually splitting open the branch (see attached photo).

We cannot see any insects in or around the lesions.

One thing of note - there was a very old apple tree planted in the same spot that was removed 3 years ago. It was full of holes and its wood was disintegrating. Not sure if there is any relationship!

Does anyone have any ideas on what this might be or how to address it? This tree was supposed to be pest free! Thanks so much for any help you might have.

-Kristy

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Comments (3)

rhizo_1 (North AL) zone 7
11 years ago
You know those buzzing, whirring sounds you're hearing from the trees in the spring and summer? The cicadas? That is the damage the females create when they slice into tree branches with their ovipositer to lay eggs. Smaller twigs can be killed by this injury.

This has nothing to do with your apple tree.
kwicklund
Original Author
11 years ago
Thank you so much. Being in the Seattle area, we do not usually consider cicadas as the source of a problem. But certainly we have them and you provided the explanation that has eluded several local arborists. Thank you!
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rhizo_1 (North AL) zone 7
11 years ago
Spread the word, lol. But please also spread the word that for the most part, trees can tolerate this kind of damage. Larger branches will not suffer greatly; it's only those of a small size that may die. You'll be able to spot those, here and there, on an affected tree.

Cicadas should not be considered a 'pest' that requires treatment. I'd hate to see the arborists in town decide to launch a media blitz to get rid of all the cicadas! That would be a disaster.