Bracket fungi - a danger to trees

17:42 8th January 2010

With Brits being liable for damage or injury caused by falling timber on their land, it can be useful to know when a tree is decaying by being able to spot bracket fungi.

The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) has produced a feature on identifying and dealing with the problem as part of its disease of the month section on its website.

According to the organisation, once the issue has arisen, garden and greenhouse enthusiasts should contact the Arboriculture Association for advice on what to do.

It revealed that not much can be done to prevent the disease and even removing the spores has proved ineffective.

Symptoms include the appearance of bracket-shaped fruiting bodies on the trunk or main branches, as well as brown or white rot in the heartwood.

The rot can often be so bad that the tree topples of its own accord or fails to withstand strong winds.

Fagus, Fraxinus and Prunuus trees seem to be particularly susceptible to the disease so owners of these should remain vigilant.

Meanwhile, the RHS recently advised gardeners to check out the interestingly-coloured tree bark on show in some of its recommended gardens around the country.