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Left unchecked, canker can gradually spread to affect whole branches and sections of trees. Severely-infected old trees may be beyond rescue, while young trees are vulnerable to infection, particularly where other susceptible trees are growing

A general term for disease that's characterised by patches of dead cells on the trunk or branches of a tree or woody plant. Also see Anthracnose.

Bacterial canker affects ornamental and edible Prunus species, including cherries, plums and apricots. Monty demonstrates effective techniques for pruning out infected stems, in his practical video guide.spring-summerMore problem-solving advice

A general term (also see Canker) covering a large number of plant diseases sharing similar symptoms, namely patches of dead tissue on leaves or stems. These are caused by a range of organisms, including fungi, bacteria, mycoplasmas and viruses.

in Avon). I’ve recently also grown an F1 variety called 'Excalibur', which is good too. It has an RHS Award of Garden Merit, which means it's been trialled, with good results. I've found it to be pretty resistant to canker too.But it wasn't quite the end

and limbs for signs of bleeding canker, an infection with the capacity to kill thousands of horse chestnut trees. Last time I checked I found no evidence of canker, but I remain fretful about the possibility. Our horse chestnut seems much healthier

Apple sooty blotchApple sawflyApple and pear scabCanker on apples trees

, such as canker, can set in.Congregations of fluffy, white, waxy aphids cause localised swellings on branches. If the swellings split open in winter, infections can set in.Blast off the fluffy, sticky aphid mass with a high-speed jet of water. This won't cure

Viburnum beetle was named as the number one pest by the RHS in 2010, stealing the crown from slugs and snails. It's native to the UK, but is becoming more widespread. Most of the leaf damage is caused by the stripey, beige-coloured larvae, though

with pests and diseases.Caring for your apple treesPreventing apple and pear scab.Combatting apple sawfly.Treating apple sooty blotch.Dealing with canker.Choose fruit varieties to grow in your gardenBrowse our collection of deciduous trees