Dendrostoma

Dendrostoma is a genus of fungi responsible for significant bark and stem diseases in various deciduous tree species. These pathogens act as necrotrophic parasites, colonizing the bark tissue and the underlying cambium, which disrupts the transport of nutrients and water, eventually leading to dieback or the death of the host plant.

This disease commonly affects woody plants, including various species of oak, beech, and different fruit trees. The infection often starts through wounds caused by pruning, insect activity, or abiotic stress factors like winter frost or drought, which expose the inner tissues and allow the fungus to establish a foothold.

The primary clinical signs of Dendrostoma infection include localized bark necrosis, discoloration, and the formation of deep fissures or lesions. As the fungus matures, it produces fruiting bodies that emerge through the bark surface as small, dark, pimple-like structures, which serve as sources for the dissemination of fungal spores.

Disease development is heavily influenced by environmental conditions, with high humidity and moderate temperatures providing an ideal climate for fungal growth and sporulation. Once the cycle begins, the spores can be spread rapidly by wind, splashing rain, or movement of tools, potentially infecting nearby healthy trees in the vicinity.

Management of Dendrostoma requires an integrated approach. The most critical practice is the prompt removal and destruction of infected limbs to reduce inoculum pressure. Growers should ensure that all pruning cuts are clean and protected with wound sealants, and apply preventative fungicidal treatments to reduce the risk of secondary infections in high-risk areas.

• Sanitary pruning of affected branches
• Sterilization of pruning tools
• Application of copper-based fungicides
• Wound protection with specialized pastes
• Maintaining tree vigor through proper fertilization