Cinder conk

[chep]

On a 2 leadered yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) in a clients drive is pretty extreme Cinder conk (Inonotus obliquus). It has affected over 1/4 of the stem at 5 feet, maybe 16 inches diameter. Now, it is not present on the second leader, the trees split at about 2 feet above the ground. The decay column does not appear to have spread towards the base beyond 4-5 inches.
Also located on the property are a number of young paper birch, and several older river birches.
Right now I am moving towards recomending the removal of this infected leader. My reasoning is to get it out of there to try and save the second leader. Now, could, this fungus already be in the other leader?
Also, I was hoping to leave chips on site. Is this stupid due to the other healthy birches on site? How does this fungus spread, time of year etc, how aggressivly.
Next, if the chips can be left on site, how long should they be piled and heated for?
thanks

 

[guymayor]

[ QUOTE ]

It has affected over 1/4 of the stem at 5 feet, maybe 16 inches diameter. Now, it is not present on the second leader, the trees split at about 2 feet above the ground. The decay column does not appear to have spread towards the base beyond 4-5 inches.

[/ QUOTE ]

Sounds like youi could assess this decay by digging it out, and while you are at it excising the infection, and see how the tree responds.

Got a camera?

 

[chep]

thanks for the reply,
guy, could you please either detail an excising, or point me in the direction of finding info on the subject.
Does anyone have a suggestion on the question of chips. Can infected chips be left on site, heated and expected not to infect the other species on site?
thanks

 

[guymayor]

please either detail an excising, or point me in the direction of finding info on the subject.

A New Tree Biology

and in the attached it is the fourth "Ex"