Arborist Albuquerque Tree Health & Disease Management 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is a common sign of fungal infection in trees?
- Bright green foliage year-round
- Cankers and fungal fruiting bodies (Correct answer)
- Smooth, unblemished bark
- Increased growth rate
Correct answer: Cankers and fungal fruiting bodies
Fungal infections often cause discolored leaves, cankers, or the presence of fruiting bodies, which indicate decay or disease.
Question 2: Which pest is known to cause significant damage to ash trees?
- Japanese beetle
- Emerald ash borer (Correct answer)
- Aphids
- Bagworm
Correct answer: Emerald ash borer
The emerald ash borer is an invasive insect that burrows under the bark of ash trees, disrupting nutrient flow and eventually killing the tree.
Question 3: How does proper pruning help manage tree diseases?
- Encourages uncontrolled growth
- Reduces disease spread and improves airflow (Correct answer)
- Prevents all tree infections
- Increases moisture retention on leaves
Correct answer: Reduces disease spread and improves airflow
Pruning removes infected or dead branches, improving airflow and reducing the spread of pathogens that thrive in dense, humid conditions.
Question 4: What is the primary cause of root rot in trees?
- Drought stress
- Excess moisture and fungal infection (Correct answer)
- Lack of nutrients
- Pest infestations
Correct answer: Excess moisture and fungal infection
Excess soil moisture due to poor drainage or overwatering creates ideal conditions for root rot fungi, which damage the tree’s root system.
Question 5: Which method is effective for preventing the spread of Dutch Elm Disease?
- Allowing dead wood to decompose naturally
- Pruning and removing infected wood (Correct answer)
- Avoiding all pruning
- Planting more elm trees nearby
Correct answer: Pruning and removing infected wood
Proper sanitation, such as removing and destroying infected wood, along with systemic fungicide treatments, helps prevent the spread of Dutch Elm Disease.
Question 6: How can soil health impact tree disease resistance?
- Has no effect on disease resistance
- Supports strong root growth and resistance (Correct answer)
- Encourages more pathogen growth
- Reduces the need for watering
Correct answer: Supports strong root growth and resistance
Healthy soil provides essential nutrients and promotes strong root growth, which improves a tree’s ability to resist diseases and environmental stressors.
Arborist Albuquerque Tree Health & Disease Management 1
What is a common sign of fungal infection in trees?