Recognize and treat diseases of the sweet chestnut

Which diseases threaten the sweet chestnut most often?

The chestnut crayfish manifests itself in a reddish discolored and later cracking bark. It is triggered by a very aggressive fungus and has already destroyed entire stocks. That is why bark cancer is probably the most dangerous disease in sweet chestnuts. Trees whose bark has already been damaged or injured are particularly at risk.

The ink sickness occurs particularly often on sweet chestnuts that are in damp, impermeable soil. It is caused by fungi that penetrate the roots and cut off the supply of water. This causes the leaves to wilt and parts of the crown to die. A dark liquid emerges from the trunk in some places, it gives the disease its name.

The fruits themselves, the chestnuts, can also be attacked by pests, namely by the chestnut borer or the chestnut moth. The chestnut borer is a small weevil, it eats the chestnuts empty from the inside. The chestnut moth lays its larvae in the fruit.

How can I protect my chestnut from diseases?

The best protection against various diseases or an infestation with pests is still a well-suited one Location and proper care. plants Place your chestnut in a warm, sunny place with a slightly acidic, humus-rich soil. Use a fertilizer containing potassium to ensure a balanced supply of nutrients and prevent the plant from standing there too long with wet feet.

In the event of an infestation with the dreaded chestnut crayfish, the sweet chestnuts can now be vaccinated with the help of a less aggressive fungus. Against the chestnut curler, it helps to put a belt made of corrugated cardboard around the trunk. It is best to look for a resistant one that is suitable for your region before buying a sweet chestnut variety.

The most common diseases of the sweet chestnut:

• Chestnut Crab
• Ink sickness
• Chestnut moth
• Chestnut borer