My dwarf apple tree has had a canker on the trunk for many years. It produces 5 dozen apples and is at least 10 years old. This year the crumbling infected part of the canker has grown immensely and infected a new apple tree that is 5 feet away. Is it possible to carve out the crumbly bark and paint bare core of the trunk with a fungicidal paint. I have not been able to purchase this paint at the local nurseries and would like to know where to get some. Kathy
I do not know of a fungicidal paint product being available at the retail level for at least 15 years (since I started working at Nurseries), there are systemic fungicides but I dont think there is anything registered for homeowner use on fruits, Benomyl was available until last year and is systemic but generally fungicides have little effect on canker. General procedure for canker is to cut infected parts of the plant off and destroy them (burn). If its on the main trunk that can be a little hard to do. Do not carve in to the healthy wood this is not a good idea. Any chance of a picture? It may give someone here an idea of possible care.
