Best remedy for rot in plum tree

Question

We have a 50+ old plum tree in Auckland New Zealand, that fruits prolifically most years and we've just found major rot in one of the branches (see photo attached). The bark has fallen off and the wood underneath is soft and powdery. There are also signs of similar smaller areas on other branches. Can anybody offer any suggestions as to what this might be and the best way (if any) to treat it? Thanks Paul

Answer 1

Your tree is a very, very old lady - average productive life span for a plum tree is around 10-20 years, though it obviously varies between individuals and many go on for longer, getting more gnarly as they do, see here https://www.hunker.com/12272347/fruit-tree-life-expectancy But 50 years and still fruiting well is quite remarkable, although it is not uncommon for a fruit tree to produce a bumper crop or two when it's on its way out. I don't think there's anything you can do to improve the situation, because ultimately, all things must pass.

The biggest risk might actually be the danger from falling limbs, so just ensure it's safe - any large rotten branches are best removed, assuming you're not ready to take the whole tree out. You might want to push against the main trunk to see if it moves at all, as well as inspect nearer the base of the trunk for signs of problems. If it does move, or there's rot low down, it could pose a real risk to people or property, and it might be better to remove it immediately; having a tree surgeon or arborist inspect would be a good idea.

Answer 2

If it were my tree, I don't care how old it is, I would still want to take care of it. Myself I would cut the branch off, I have bought a little battery chain saw, for pruning. I would then treat the cut with a special solution that keeps rain away. I live in Wales, so we probably have different makes over here. Therefore buy the product first, then prune the tree.

It might be that your tree never gets watered? In a hot summer over here even, we need to give fruit trees a bucket of water every week if its hot weather.