What Is Trunk Rot

Trunk rot is the result of a fungal growth, which first exhibits its presence through yellowing or wilted leaves and stunted growth rates, eventually showing fruiting bodies on the exterior of the trunk. … It is very difficult to effectively treat rot, and nearly impossible once it has begun to fruit.

What causes trunk rot?

Heart rot is caused by fungi entering the trunk of the tree through wounds in the bark. These wounds are areas of the tree where bare wood is exposed and usually, a result of improper pruning, fire damage, dead branches, insects, or even animal damage.

How do you keep a tree trunk from rotting?

Apply a Wood Sealant Product Using a small- to medium-sized brush, apply two or three coats of polyurethane wood sealant over the surface of the stump. Be sure to get the top and all sides. When finished, allow at least 48 hours for the sealant to dry, at which point the stump should be preserved.