DiseaseMedium Severity

Physalospora Bleeding Canker

Physalospora obtusa

A fungal disease causing bleeding cankers, twig dieback, and various blights on numerous tree species. Most notable for wet, bleeding cankers on alder stems and branches. The pathogen causes fruit rot, cankers, cone and seed rot on conifers, and twig blights.

Peak Season: Most active during warm, rainy weather in early spring at bud break. Spore release occurs in spring wet periods. Summer inoculum production continues until fall.
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Physalospora bleeding canker showing characteristic canker formation and bleeding symptoms typical of this fungal disease

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Wet, bleeding cankers on stems and branches
Twig dieback progressing from canker sites
Fruit rot on susceptible host trees
Cone and seed rot on coniferous species
Twig blights on various tree species
Bark wounds becoming infected and expanding
Pycnidia formation providing secondary inoculum

Potential Damage

Progressive twig and branch dieback
Canker expansion leading to branch girdling
Fruit and seed production losses
Structural weakening from canker damage
Secondary infection opportunities through wounded bark
Aesthetic damage from bleeding cankers and dieback

Lifecycle

Overwinters as perithecia on infected and dead branches. Ascospores are released in spring during and following wet weather when conditions favor infection. Spores invade bark wounds, germinate, and form pycnidia that provide inoculum throughout summer until cool fall weather favors perithecial development.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Apply systemic fungicides like Fungisol during vulnerable spring periods

2

Remove and destroy infected branches and twigs

3

Avoid bark wounds during pruning and maintenance

4

Improve air circulation around affected trees

5

Disinfect pruning tools between cuts

6

Professional diagnosis recommended for accurate identification

Recommended Mauget Products

Fungisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against physalospora bleeding canker.

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Mycoject Ultra

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against physalospora bleeding canker.

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