Causal Agent

Certain kinds of fermenting bacteria and yeasts.

 

Hosts

Most common on elm, maple, birch, oak, poplar, sycamore, and willow.   

 

Symptoms

Sap seeps out of the infected area and flows down the trunk. This foul smelling substance often discolors or kills the bark. Insects may be attracted by the odor. Wounds provide entry for the fermenting organisms. 

 

Control

There is no cure or prevention for this condition. Water infected trees deeply once a week during dry spells. Drilling holes eight to 12 inches below the fluxing area relieves sap pressure but this is not a recommended treatment. Please contact your local county extension office for current information.