Many dogwoods have disappeared from Tyler County’s landscape, with fewer trees visible each year. Allen Smith, who serves as the East Texas Forest Health Coordinator with the Texas A&M Forest Service, spoke to the Tyler County Forest Landowner Association on Saturday, March 21, and explained what has happened to the dogwoods.
Smith explained that the decline is attributed to a fungus that entered the US from Asia at Boston in the 1970s.
Smith is the East Texas Forest Health Coordinator with Texas A & M Forest Service.
The fungus discula destructiva starts with small tan or brown spots on lower leaves and branches and then moves upward. To reduce the chance of a fungus infection, cut away any sprouts at the base of the trunk. Appropriate fungicide applications can prevent the fungus from attacking a tree, but fungicides will not cure an infected tree. If a tree is infected, remove and destroy the infected twigs or branches promptly.
Native dogwood trees are susceptible to the fungus and the devistation in forests is up to 95%. When planting new seedlings/trees, consider fungus resistant varieties. Kousa dogwoods, or hybrids of Kousa and native trees, are the most readily available options. Other resistant varieties are tartarian and red osier.
Traditionally, dogwoods were planted in shaded, understory settings. However, Smith advised planting new dogwoods in full sun to reduce the chance of fungal infection.
