May 1, 2025 • 13 mins
In this Thursday episode of Talking Trees, we focus on the global threat posed by Phytophthora species, aggressive plant pathogens that have devastated forests, gardens, and natural landscapes worldwide.
We discuss:
- The biology and life cycle of Phytophthora fungi-like organisms, including their ability to spread through water, soil, and infected plant material
- The impact of Phytophthora ramorum and Phytophthora kernoviae in the UK, with studies estimating significant public value at risk across woodlands and heritage landscapes
- Broader examples such as Phytophthora cinnamomi, responsible for widespread root rot in forest trees across Australia and the Americas
- Common symptoms of infection: crown thinning, bleeding cankers, dieback, and root decay
- The importance of early detection, biosecurity measures, and public awareness to limit spread and protect vulnerable ecosystems
Phytophthora continues to reshape forest health policy and underscores the need for vigilant, science-informed tree management.
Background information:
- Drake et Jones. 2017. Public value at risk from Phytophthora ramorum and Phytophthora kernoviae spread in England and Wale.pdf
- Hardy. 2004. Phytophthora Root Rot of Forest Trees.pdf
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Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Roger (00:02):
Talking Trees with Lily and Jad.
Welcome to Talking Trees, yourdaily exploration into the
challenges facing our naturalworld.
In today's episode, we turn ourfocus to the fungal pathogens
of the genus Phytophthora, aserious threat to forests and
natural ecosystems around theglobe, including in England and
(00:23):
Wales.
Ecosystems around the globe,including in England and Wales.
Drake and Jones 2017, examinedthe economic impact of the
spread of Phytophthora ramorumand Phytophthora carnovii,
estimating significant financiallosses linked to the damage of
gardens, heaths and forests.
Meanwhile, hardy 2004, offers acomprehensive overview of
(00:44):
various Phytophthora species,detailing their life cycles,
dissemination methods and theextensive damage they cause to
forest trees across continents.
Join us as we delve into thesepressing issues and explore
strategies to safeguard ourgreen landscapes.
Jad (01:10):
Welcome back everybody.
Today we're going to be takinga deep dive into something that
I know is a big concern for allyou arborists out there
phytophthora it is.
It's a pretty big, silentthreat to our trees and, you
know, as arborists, you're theones that are really out there
on the front lines.
Lilly (01:22):
Absolutely.
Jad (01:22):
We've got a couple of research articles today that
we're going to be looking at Yep, and also a really interesting
overview of phytothor root rot.
So let's kind of unpack this alittle bit and see what we can
figure out and learn today.
Lilly (01:35):
Yeah, I think you know.
The thing that is so strikingabout phytothor is that even for
seasoned professionals you know, those of us who've been in the
industry for quite a while itcan completely change the game
for us.
Jad (01:49):
Yeah, for sure.
And it's not just you know atextbook pathogen we're talking
about.
You know a genus that can wipeout entire ecosystems, and I'm
not being hyperbolic here.
Lilly (01:59):
This is the real deal.
It's a serious issue.
Jad (02:02):
Yeah.
So let's jump right in and talkabout a case that I think
really shook the arboricultureworld Sure, sudden oak death.
Lilly (02:10):
Okay.
Jad (02:11):
Caused by Phytophthora remorum.
Lilly (02:12):
Yeah, phytophthora remorum is such a fascinating,
horrifying but fascinatingexample, because you're talking
about a pathogen that canactually spread through the air.
Oh, in coastal regions of NorthAmerica it's been.
You know it's been devastating.
It's causing rapid oakmortality, and it's not just
(02:33):
oaks that are vulnerable to this.
You know we're talking over ahundred susceptible species.
Jad (02:36):
Over a hundred, yeah, so what does that mean for
arborists?
What do they need to bethinking about?
Lilly (02:41):
Well, you know, vigilance is really keyed here, because
you could have a tree that seemsperfectly healthy one day and
then all of a sudden you startseeing these signs of dieback.
Phytophthora remorum is, youknow, kind of a master of
disguise in a lot of ways andits impacts can be very swift
and severe.
Jad (02:57):
So knowing the signings is really crucial then.
Lilly (03:00):
Oh, absolutely.
And this is where it getsreally tricky because, you know,
the symptoms of phytophthoracan vary depending on the host
and even the specificphytophthora species that you're
dealing with.
So you know, we might see rootrot, we might see cankers, we
might see wilking, but it's notalways a very clear cut
diagnosis.
Jad (03:20):
Right, and that's just one example.
Lilly (03:22):
There are other phytothorous species out there
that are wreaking havoc as wellin shortleaf pies, and the scope
of its impact is reallymind-boggling because over 3,000
plant species are known to besusceptible to phytophthora
(03:52):
cinnamomi 3,000.
Jad (03:53):
That's almost impossible to even fathom.
Lilly (03:56):
It is and it really speaks to the interconnectedness
of our ecosystems.
Jad (04:00):
Yeah.
Lilly (04:01):
You know, because when phytophthora cinnamomi infects a
tree, it's not just about thatone tree You're talking about,
you know, disrupting the entireecosystem, impacting soil,
health, biodiversity, evenaffecting the animals that rely
on those trees for habitat andfood.
Jad (04:16):
It's like a domino effect.
Lilly (04:17):
It is.
Jad (04:18):
One that we, as arborists, really need to understand and be
prepared for.
Lilly (04:22):
Absolutely.
Jad (04:22):
And to make things even more complex, this pathogen
isn't confined to one continent.
Lilly (04:27):
Right.
Jad (04:27):
It's present in Europe as well.
Lilly (04:29):
Yeah, and the fact that you know Phytothororomorum was
first described in Europe beforeit caused so much devastation
in North America reallyhighlights how easily these
pathogens can travel.
Jad (04:40):
Yeah.
Lilly (04:40):
You know, we live in a globalized world and what
happens in one forest can have aripple effect on another forest
on the other side of the planet.
Jad (04:47):
It's a good point that global perspective is really
essential for arborists,especially in today's world.
Lilly (04:53):
Absolutely, and I think from a practical standpoint you
know, understanding the economicimpact of phytophthora can be
really powerful when you'retalking to clients.
Jad (05:02):
OK.
Lilly (05:02):
You know we have research here from the Journal of
Environmental Management thatestimates a staggering 1.446
billion pounds Wow, annualpublic value at risk in England
and Wales alone.
Wow, just from the uncontrolledspread of phytophthora remorum
and Phytophthora carnovia.
Jad (05:22):
That's not just a number, though.
Lilly (05:23):
Right.
Jad (05:23):
What does that translate to in real world terms?
Lilly (05:26):
Think about heritage, gardens, woodlands, heathlands
all of these are at risk.
Wow, imagine having to explainto a client that their beloved
oak tree- that's been thecenterpiece of their property
for years, has to be removedbecause of phytophthora.
The cost of removal, replanting, the potential decrease in
property value it all adds up.
Jad (05:48):
So it's not just about saving trees.
Lilly (05:50):
It's about so much more.
Jad (05:51):
It's about protecting investments.
Lilly (05:52):
Right.
Jad (05:53):
Preserving these landscapes and really understanding the
true cost of inaction.
Lilly (06:08):
Exactly Preserving these landscapes and really
understanding the true cost ofinaction, how serious a threat
phytophthora is, both in termsof its ecological impact and
also economically.
But now I think it's time toshift gears a little bit and
talk about what we can actuallydo about it.
Jad (06:24):
Yeah, because knowledge is great, Right, but you know
actually getting out there andputting it into practice and
saving these trees is reallywhat it's all about.
Lilly (06:32):
Exactly.
Jad (06:33):
So where do we even begin with something like this?
Lilly (06:35):
Well, it all starts with the basics, and I can't stress
this enough Hygiene andsanitation are your first line
of defense.
Jad (06:40):
Okay.
Lilly (06:41):
I know it sounds really simple, but you'd be surprised
how often these fundamentalpractices are overlooked.
Jad (06:47):
What does that look like in practice?
Lilly (06:48):
Well, think about it, you're moving between job sites.
Right, you're dealing withpotentially infected trees.
Jad (06:54):
Right.
Lilly (06:54):
Every time you touch a branch, use your tools, even
drive your truck from onelocation to another.
You could be transportingphytothorous spores.
Jad (07:02):
So we're all potential carriers then?
Essentially yes, unknowinglyspreading this microscopic
menace.
Lilly (07:07):
That's right, but the good news is we can break that
chain.
It's all about being mindfuland implementing some simple but
effective biosecurity measures.
Jad (07:17):
Okay, so give us some specifics.
What could arborists do to youknow?
Stop those spores from hittinga ride.
Lilly (07:23):
Well, start with your toolers.
Jad (07:24):
Okay.
Lilly (07:24):
Make sure they're cleaned and disinfected between every
single job.
Jad (07:27):
Okay.
Lilly (07:27):
Think about the soles of your boots, your truck tires
anything that comes into contactwith soil or plant material
could be harboring phytophthora.
Jad (07:36):
So it's kind of like creating a clean slate before
you move on to the next site.
Lilly (07:39):
Exactly.
Jad (07:40):
No one wanted souvenirs.
Lilly (07:48):
Precisely.
And another important step issourcing your plants from
reputable nurseries thatprioritize biosecurity.
Don't be afraid to askquestions about their practices,
their inspection protocols.
You want to be confident thatthe trees you're planting are
healthy and disease-free.
Jad (07:59):
It's all about due diligence.
Lilly (08:01):
Absolutely.
Jad (08:01):
Protecting your clients and their investments.
Lilly (08:04):
Exactly, and remember we talked earlier about the
importance of early detectionand reporting.
Right, you're the eyes on theground.
If you see something suspicious, don't hesitate to reach out to
your local plant healthauthorities.
Jad (08:16):
Okay.
Lilly (08:17):
Or diagnostic labs.
Jad (08:18):
So if a tree is showing symptoms, we shouldn't just
assume it's something else.
Lilly (08:22):
Right.
Jad (08:22):
Better to get confirmation.
Lilly (08:24):
Exactly.
A proper diagnosis is key.
They can identify the specificphytophthora species, which can
then guide your treatmentdecisions.
Jad (08:31):
Okay.
So let's say we've got aconfirmed case of phytophthora.
Lilly (08:34):
Okay.
Jad (08:35):
What happens next?
Lilly (08:36):
Well, the next steps depend on a variety of factors,
sure, the severity of theinfection, the species of the
tree, the site conditions.
But in many cases removing anddestroying infected plant
material is necessary to preventfurther spread.
Jad (08:51):
Removal.
That sounds a little drastic.
I know, are there less extremeoptions?
Lilly (08:56):
Sometimes, if the infection is caught early enough
and depending on the overallhealth of the tree, preening
affected branches or roots mightbe an opaline.
Jad (09:06):
So kind of like a surgical approach.
Lilly (09:08):
Exactly Just targeting the diseased area, that's right,
but it's important to emphasizethat this must be done with
extreme care.
Jad (09:15):
Okay.
Lilly (09:16):
And in conjunction with other management strategies.
You don't want to create morewounds that could become entry
points for further infection.
Jad (09:23):
Right, it's all about minimizing the risk of spreading
those spores.
Lilly (09:27):
Precisely, and another important aspect of control is
managing the site conditions tomake them less favorable for
phytophthora.
Jad (09:35):
Okay, how do we do that?
Lilly (09:36):
Well, we know that this pathogen thrives in moist,
poorly drained soils, so thinkabout improving drainage,
avoiding overwatering, mulchingappropriately.
Jad (09:49):
So it's about playing defense, creating an environment
that's not a phytophthoraparadise.
Lilly (09:54):
That's a great way to put it.
You're essentially tweaking theenvironment to give the trees a
fighting chance.
Jad (09:59):
And this is where an arborist's expertise really
comes into play.
Lilly (10:03):
Absolutely.
Jad (10:03):
Right Understanding the specific needs of the trees and
the site conditions.
Lilly (10:07):
You're not just treating the symptoms.
Jad (10:09):
Right.
Lilly (10:09):
You're creating a holistic management plan that
considers the entire ecosystem.
Jad (10:14):
And speaking of tools in the toolbox, yes, we talked
earlier about phosphonates, aswhat's the latest on those?
Lilly (10:21):
Well, phosphonates can be a valuable weapon against
phytophthora.
Jad (10:24):
Okay.
Lilly (10:24):
Especially in severe cases or when you're dealing
with highly valuable trees.
They work by boosting theplant's natural defenses and
inhibiting the pathogen's growth.
Jad (10:35):
But like with any chemical treatment, there are some
potential downsides to consider.
Lilly (10:39):
There are, and responsible use is really key.
One concern is phytotoxicity.
Jad (10:45):
Okay.
Lilly (10:45):
Essentially damage to the treat itself Right If the
phosphonates are appliedincorrectly or at too high a
concentration.
Jad (10:53):
So knowing the right dosage and application method is
crucial.
Lilly (10:57):
Absolutely.
And another issue is thepotential for resistance
development in phytophthorapopulations if they're
repeatedly exposed to the samechemical treatment.
Jad (11:07):
So it's a balancing act then.
It is Using these toolsstrategically while minimizing
the risks.
Exactly what's the best way forarborists to stay informed
about the latest research andguidelines on phosphonate use?
Lilly (11:20):
That's a great question.
The research is constantlyevolving.
Jad (11:23):
Right.
Lilly (11:23):
So continued education is really fruitful.
Organizations like the ForestryCommission and FARA are
excellent resources.
They publish research findings,best practice guidelines and
they even host workshops.
Jad (11:35):
So staying ahead of the curve is really essential in
this battle.
Lilly (11:39):
It is.
Jad (11:39):
It's not just about knowing what to do.
It's about knowing the latestand the most effective methods.
Lilly (11:46):
Exactly and don't underestimate the power of
networking.
Jad (11:49):
Okay.
Lilly (11:50):
Talk to other arborists, share experiences, attend
conferences Right the collectiveknowledge and expertise within
the arboriculture community isinvaluable.
Jad (12:01):
Powerful stuff.
I think you know a lot ofarborists feel that deep
connection to the trees thatthey care for.
It's more than just a job,Absolutely, it's a passion.
Lilly (12:10):
I couldn't agree more, and that passion is what's going
to drive us forward.
Jad (12:13):
Yeah.
Lilly (12:14):
Even in the face of challenges like Phytophthora.
Jad (12:17):
Well, as we wrap up this deep dive, I want to thank you
for sharing your expertise andinsights with us today.
Lilly (12:21):
Oh, the pleasure was all mine.
Jad (12:23):
It's been a really eye-opening journey into the
world of Phytophthora.
Lilly (12:26):
Yeah, it's a fascinating and complex topic, for sure.
Jad (12:28):
For sure To our listeners out there.
We hope this deep dive hasequipped you with the knowledge,
sparked some new ideas andfueled your passion for
protecting our trees.
Lilly (12:37):
Absolutely.
Stay curious stay informed andkeep up the amazing work you do,
because together we can make adifference.
Couldn't have said it bettermyself the amazing work you do,
because together we can make adifference.
Roger (12:45):
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Thank you for joining us ontoday's episode of Talking Trees
.
We've delved into the criticalthreat posed by phytophthora
pathogens.
As we continue to navigatethese complex issues, we hope
you take away the importance ofproactive prevention and control
measures in safeguarding ourforests and natural ecosystems.
(13:05):
Until next time, stay informedand committed to protecting our
green world.
Talking Trees with Lily and Jad.
Welcome to Talking Trees, yourdaily exploration into the
challenges facing our naturalworld.
In today's episode, we turn ourfocus to the fungal pathogens
of the genus Phytophthora, aserious threat to forests and
natural ecosystems around theglobe, including in England and
(00:23):
Wales.
Ecosystems around the globe,including in England and Wales.
Drake and Jones 2017, examinedthe economic impact of the
spread of Phytophthora ramorumand Phytophthora carnovii,
estimating significant financiallosses linked to the damage of
gardens, heaths and forests.
Meanwhile, hardy 2004, offers acomprehensive overview of
(00:44):
various Phytophthora species,detailing their life cycles,
dissemination methods and theextensive damage they cause to
forest trees across continents.
Join us as we delve into thesepressing issues and explore
strategies to safeguard ourgreen landscapes.
Jad (01:10):
Welcome back everybody.
Today we're going to be takinga deep dive into something that
I know is a big concern for allyou arborists out there
phytophthora it is.
It's a pretty big, silentthreat to our trees and, you
know, as arborists, you're theones that are really out there
on the front lines.
Lilly (01:22):
Absolutely.
Jad (01:22):
We've got a couple of research articles today that
we're going to be looking at Yep, and also a really interesting
overview of phytothor root rot.
So let's kind of unpack this alittle bit and see what we can
figure out and learn today.
Lilly (01:35):
Yeah, I think you know.
The thing that is so strikingabout phytothor is that even for
seasoned professionals you know, those of us who've been in the
industry for quite a while itcan completely change the game
for us.
Jad (01:49):
Yeah, for sure.
And it's not just you know atextbook pathogen we're talking
about.
You know a genus that can wipeout entire ecosystems, and I'm
not being hyperbolic here.
Lilly (01:59):
This is the real deal.
It's a serious issue.
Jad (02:02):
Yeah.
So let's jump right in and talkabout a case that I think
really shook the arboricultureworld Sure, sudden oak death.
Lilly (02:10):
Okay.
Jad (02:11):
Caused by Phytophthora remorum.
Lilly (02:12):
Yeah, phytophthora remorum is such a fascinating,
horrifying but fascinatingexample, because you're talking
about a pathogen that canactually spread through the air.
Oh, in coastal regions of NorthAmerica it's been.
You know it's been devastating.
It's causing rapid oakmortality, and it's not just
(02:33):
oaks that are vulnerable to this.
You know we're talking over ahundred susceptible species.
Jad (02:36):
Over a hundred, yeah, so what does that mean for
arborists?
What do they need to bethinking about?
Lilly (02:41):
Well, you know, vigilance is really keyed here, because
you could have a tree that seemsperfectly healthy one day and
then all of a sudden you startseeing these signs of dieback.
Phytophthora remorum is, youknow, kind of a master of
disguise in a lot of ways andits impacts can be very swift
and severe.
Jad (02:57):
So knowing the signings is really crucial then.
Lilly (03:00):
Oh, absolutely.
And this is where it getsreally tricky because, you know,
the symptoms of phytophthoracan vary depending on the host
and even the specificphytophthora species that you're
dealing with.
So you know, we might see rootrot, we might see cankers, we
might see wilking, but it's notalways a very clear cut
diagnosis.
Jad (03:20):
Right, and that's just one example.
Lilly (03:22):
There are other phytothorous species out there
that are wreaking havoc as wellin shortleaf pies, and the scope
of its impact is reallymind-boggling because over 3,000
plant species are known to besusceptible to phytophthora
(03:52):
cinnamomi 3,000.
Jad (03:53):
That's almost impossible to even fathom.
Lilly (03:56):
It is and it really speaks to the interconnectedness
of our ecosystems.
Jad (04:00):
Yeah.
Lilly (04:01):
You know, because when phytophthora cinnamomi infects a
tree, it's not just about thatone tree You're talking about,
you know, disrupting the entireecosystem, impacting soil,
health, biodiversity, evenaffecting the animals that rely
on those trees for habitat andfood.
Jad (04:16):
It's like a domino effect.
Lilly (04:17):
It is.
Jad (04:18):
One that we, as arborists, really need to understand and be
prepared for.
Lilly (04:22):
Absolutely.
Jad (04:22):
And to make things even more complex, this pathogen
isn't confined to one continent.
Lilly (04:27):
Right.
Jad (04:27):
It's present in Europe as well.
Lilly (04:29):
Yeah, and the fact that you know Phytothororomorum was
first described in Europe beforeit caused so much devastation
in North America reallyhighlights how easily these
pathogens can travel.
Jad (04:40):
Yeah.
Lilly (04:40):
You know, we live in a globalized world and what
happens in one forest can have aripple effect on another forest
on the other side of the planet.
Jad (04:47):
It's a good point that global perspective is really
essential for arborists,especially in today's world.
Lilly (04:53):
Absolutely, and I think from a practical standpoint you
know, understanding the economicimpact of phytophthora can be
really powerful when you'retalking to clients.
Jad (05:02):
OK.
Lilly (05:02):
You know we have research here from the Journal of
Environmental Management thatestimates a staggering 1.446
billion pounds Wow, annualpublic value at risk in England
and Wales alone.
Wow, just from the uncontrolledspread of phytophthora remorum
and Phytophthora carnovia.
Jad (05:22):
That's not just a number, though.
Lilly (05:23):
Right.
Jad (05:23):
What does that translate to in real world terms?
Lilly (05:26):
Think about heritage, gardens, woodlands, heathlands
all of these are at risk.
Wow, imagine having to explainto a client that their beloved
oak tree- that's been thecenterpiece of their property
for years, has to be removedbecause of phytophthora.
The cost of removal, replanting, the potential decrease in
property value it all adds up.
Jad (05:48):
So it's not just about saving trees.
Lilly (05:50):
It's about so much more.
Jad (05:51):
It's about protecting investments.
Lilly (05:52):
Right.
Jad (05:53):
Preserving these landscapes and really understanding the
true cost of inaction.
Lilly (06:08):
Exactly Preserving these landscapes and really
understanding the true cost ofinaction, how serious a threat
phytophthora is, both in termsof its ecological impact and
also economically.
But now I think it's time toshift gears a little bit and
talk about what we can actuallydo about it.
Jad (06:24):
Yeah, because knowledge is great, Right, but you know
actually getting out there andputting it into practice and
saving these trees is reallywhat it's all about.
Lilly (06:32):
Exactly.
Jad (06:33):
So where do we even begin with something like this?
Lilly (06:35):
Well, it all starts with the basics, and I can't stress
this enough Hygiene andsanitation are your first line
of defense.
Jad (06:40):
Okay.
Lilly (06:41):
I know it sounds really simple, but you'd be surprised
how often these fundamentalpractices are overlooked.
Jad (06:47):
What does that look like in practice?
Lilly (06:48):
Well, think about it, you're moving between job sites.
Right, you're dealing withpotentially infected trees.
Jad (06:54):
Right.
Lilly (06:54):
Every time you touch a branch, use your tools, even
drive your truck from onelocation to another.
You could be transportingphytothorous spores.
Jad (07:02):
So we're all potential carriers then?
Essentially yes, unknowinglyspreading this microscopic
menace.
Lilly (07:07):
That's right, but the good news is we can break that
chain.
It's all about being mindfuland implementing some simple but
effective biosecurity measures.
Jad (07:17):
Okay, so give us some specifics.
What could arborists do to youknow?
Stop those spores from hittinga ride.
Lilly (07:23):
Well, start with your toolers.
Jad (07:24):
Okay.
Lilly (07:24):
Make sure they're cleaned and disinfected between every
single job.
Jad (07:27):
Okay.
Lilly (07:27):
Think about the soles of your boots, your truck tires
anything that comes into contactwith soil or plant material
could be harboring phytophthora.
Jad (07:36):
So it's kind of like creating a clean slate before
you move on to the next site.
Lilly (07:39):
Exactly.
Jad (07:40):
No one wanted souvenirs.
Lilly (07:48):
Precisely.
And another important step issourcing your plants from
reputable nurseries thatprioritize biosecurity.
Don't be afraid to askquestions about their practices,
their inspection protocols.
You want to be confident thatthe trees you're planting are
healthy and disease-free.
Jad (07:59):
It's all about due diligence.
Lilly (08:01):
Absolutely.
Jad (08:01):
Protecting your clients and their investments.
Lilly (08:04):
Exactly, and remember we talked earlier about the
importance of early detectionand reporting.
Right, you're the eyes on theground.
If you see something suspicious, don't hesitate to reach out to
your local plant healthauthorities.
Jad (08:16):
Okay.
Lilly (08:17):
Or diagnostic labs.
Jad (08:18):
So if a tree is showing symptoms, we shouldn't just
assume it's something else.
Lilly (08:22):
Right.
Jad (08:22):
Better to get confirmation.
Lilly (08:24):
Exactly.
A proper diagnosis is key.
They can identify the specificphytophthora species, which can
then guide your treatmentdecisions.
Jad (08:31):
Okay.
So let's say we've got aconfirmed case of phytophthora.
Lilly (08:34):
Okay.
Jad (08:35):
What happens next?
Lilly (08:36):
Well, the next steps depend on a variety of factors,
sure, the severity of theinfection, the species of the
tree, the site conditions.
But in many cases removing anddestroying infected plant
material is necessary to preventfurther spread.
Jad (08:51):
Removal.
That sounds a little drastic.
I know, are there less extremeoptions?
Lilly (08:56):
Sometimes, if the infection is caught early enough
and depending on the overallhealth of the tree, preening
affected branches or roots mightbe an opaline.
Jad (09:06):
So kind of like a surgical approach.
Lilly (09:08):
Exactly Just targeting the diseased area, that's right,
but it's important to emphasizethat this must be done with
extreme care.
Jad (09:15):
Okay.
Lilly (09:16):
And in conjunction with other management strategies.
You don't want to create morewounds that could become entry
points for further infection.
Jad (09:23):
Right, it's all about minimizing the risk of spreading
those spores.
Lilly (09:27):
Precisely, and another important aspect of control is
managing the site conditions tomake them less favorable for
phytophthora.
Jad (09:35):
Okay, how do we do that?
Lilly (09:36):
Well, we know that this pathogen thrives in moist,
poorly drained soils, so thinkabout improving drainage,
avoiding overwatering, mulchingappropriately.
Jad (09:49):
So it's about playing defense, creating an environment
that's not a phytophthoraparadise.
Lilly (09:54):
That's a great way to put it.
You're essentially tweaking theenvironment to give the trees a
fighting chance.
Jad (09:59):
And this is where an arborist's expertise really
comes into play.
Lilly (10:03):
Absolutely.
Jad (10:03):
Right Understanding the specific needs of the trees and
the site conditions.
Lilly (10:07):
You're not just treating the symptoms.
Jad (10:09):
Right.
Lilly (10:09):
You're creating a holistic management plan that
considers the entire ecosystem.
Jad (10:14):
And speaking of tools in the toolbox, yes, we talked
earlier about phosphonates, aswhat's the latest on those?
Lilly (10:21):
Well, phosphonates can be a valuable weapon against
phytophthora.
Jad (10:24):
Okay.
Lilly (10:24):
Especially in severe cases or when you're dealing
with highly valuable trees.
They work by boosting theplant's natural defenses and
inhibiting the pathogen's growth.
Jad (10:35):
But like with any chemical treatment, there are some
potential downsides to consider.
Lilly (10:39):
There are, and responsible use is really key.
One concern is phytotoxicity.
Jad (10:45):
Okay.
Lilly (10:45):
Essentially damage to the treat itself Right If the
phosphonates are appliedincorrectly or at too high a
concentration.
Jad (10:53):
So knowing the right dosage and application method is
crucial.
Lilly (10:57):
Absolutely.
And another issue is thepotential for resistance
development in phytophthorapopulations if they're
repeatedly exposed to the samechemical treatment.
Jad (11:07):
So it's a balancing act then.
It is Using these toolsstrategically while minimizing
the risks.
Exactly what's the best way forarborists to stay informed
about the latest research andguidelines on phosphonate use?
Lilly (11:20):
That's a great question.
The research is constantlyevolving.
Jad (11:23):
Right.
Lilly (11:23):
So continued education is really fruitful.
Organizations like the ForestryCommission and FARA are
excellent resources.
They publish research findings,best practice guidelines and
they even host workshops.
Jad (11:35):
So staying ahead of the curve is really essential in
this battle.
Lilly (11:39):
It is.
Jad (11:39):
It's not just about knowing what to do.
It's about knowing the latestand the most effective methods.
Lilly (11:46):
Exactly and don't underestimate the power of
networking.
Jad (11:49):
Okay.
Lilly (11:50):
Talk to other arborists, share experiences, attend
conferences Right the collectiveknowledge and expertise within
the arboriculture community isinvaluable.
Jad (12:01):
Powerful stuff.
I think you know a lot ofarborists feel that deep
connection to the trees thatthey care for.
It's more than just a job,Absolutely, it's a passion.
Lilly (12:10):
I couldn't agree more, and that passion is what's going
to drive us forward.
Jad (12:13):
Yeah.
Lilly (12:14):
Even in the face of challenges like Phytophthora.
Jad (12:17):
Well, as we wrap up this deep dive, I want to thank you
for sharing your expertise andinsights with us today.
Lilly (12:21):
Oh, the pleasure was all mine.
Jad (12:23):
It's been a really eye-opening journey into the
world of Phytophthora.
Lilly (12:26):
Yeah, it's a fascinating and complex topic, for sure.
Jad (12:28):
For sure To our listeners out there.
We hope this deep dive hasequipped you with the knowledge,
sparked some new ideas andfueled your passion for
protecting our trees.
Lilly (12:37):
Absolutely.
Stay curious stay informed andkeep up the amazing work you do,
because together we can make adifference.
Couldn't have said it bettermyself the amazing work you do,
because together we can make adifference.
Roger (12:45):
Couldn't have said it better myself.
Thank you for joining us ontoday's episode of Talking Trees
.
We've delved into the criticalthreat posed by phytophthora
pathogens.
As we continue to navigatethese complex issues, we hope
you take away the importance ofproactive prevention and control
measures in safeguarding ourforests and natural ecosystems.
(13:05):
Until next time, stay informedand committed to protecting our
green world.
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