Plum Tree Sap Problems: Causes and Solutions
Plum trees are generally known for their sweet fruit, but they can sometimes develop problems that cause sap to ooze from their trunks. This can be a sign of a variety of issues, ranging from environmental stress to disease or pests.
Environmental Problems
Hot, dry summers or cold winters can stress plum trees and cause them to produce sap. Overwatering can also weaken trees and make them more susceptible to sap problems.
Disease
Cytospora canker is a common fungal disease that can affect plum trees. It often occurs in trees that have been weakened by drought, severe weather, or improper pruning. Other fungal or bacterial diseases can also cause sap to ooze from plum trees.
Pests
Several types of borers, such as peach tree borers, can infest plum trees. Borers can be identified by the presence of sap mixed with frass (insect debris and feces). Aphids and other pests can also cause sap to drip from plum tree branches.
Mechanical Injury
Plum trees can also ooze sap from injuries caused by lawn and garden equipment, such as mowers and weed trimmers.
Diagnosing Plum Tree Sap Problems
If you notice sap oozing from your plum tree, it’s important to diagnose the problem correctly in order to find the best solution. You can contact an arborist for a professional diagnosis, or you can try to identify the problem yourself.
Start by examining the tree for any signs of environmental stress, such as drought, sunburn, or overwatering. Check the trunk and branches for any wounds or injuries that could have been caused by pests or lawn equipment.
If you suspect a disease, look for signs of fungal growth or cankers on the bark. You can also check the leaves for any discoloration or spots.
Fixing Plum Tree Sap Problems
Once you have diagnosed the problem, you can start to take steps to fix it.
- Environmental Problems: If the problem is caused by environmental stress, such as drought or overwatering, adjust your watering schedule and provide the tree with some shade.
- Disease: Fungal and bacterial diseases can be treated with fungicides or bactericides. It’s important to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
- Pests: Borers can be controlled with insecticides. Aphids and other pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mechanical Injury: To prevent mechanical damage, be careful when using lawn equipment around your plum tree. If the tree has been injured, prune away any damaged branches and seal the wounds with pruning paint.
Preventing Plum Tree Sap Problems
There are a few things you can do to help prevent sap problems in plum trees:
- Water your tree regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Avoid overwatering, as this can weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to disease.
- Prune your tree properly to remove any dead or diseased branches.
- Inspect your tree regularly for any signs of pests or disease.
- Keep your lawn equipment away from the trunk of your tree to avoid causing injuries.
By following these tips, you can help keep your plum tree healthy and free of sap problems.
