Tree Decay in Relation to Pruning Practice and Wound Treatment. A Progress Report

London

1991

S. 177-187

8 Abb., 3 Tab., 26 Lit. Ang.

Unselbständiges Werk

200055264

Progress of research is reported in biological control of decay, evaluation of a novel and durable wound sealant and analysis of factors in wound creation which influence the development of decay. In a 5-year (1984-1989) trial of the bio-control agent Trichoderma isolate 127 on fourteen tree species, the final data from four species showed an absence of basidiomycete colonisation and the persistence of Trichoderma in 83-100% of wounds. For eight of the remaining species, similar data were obtained in a one-year interim sampling, but Lombardy poplar (Populus nigra "Italica") showed a high incidence of basidiomycete colonisation after 3 years (1984-1987). A physical wound sealant with high durability reduced microbial colonisation beneath beech wounds in a one-year pilot trial more than any material previously tested. Wound closure on beech and Sorbus intermedia was improved in the adaxial and abaxial positions by the retention of the branch collar or branch ridge, as compared with flush pruning. In an exeriment involving nine tree species, the season of pruning had highly significant effects on the initial rate and pattern of wound closure, cambial dieback and staining of wood beneath wounds.