• slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
  • slide
Small-Indentations-of-Trunk-of-Satsuma-Mandarin-Orange-Tree.jpg

Small Indentations of Trunk of Satsuma Mandarin Orange Tree

I noticed small indentations on my Satsuma tree’s trunk. What might be causing them?

Take a close look at the spots on your satsuma mandarin orange (Citrus reticulate) tree.  If they appear flaky and on the surface of the tree trunk, they are lichens. Composed of a fungus and blue-green algae, these organisms do not harm the plant. In fact, they should be left in place because scraping them off can injure the trunk.  Sunken and discolored areas, on the other hand, are cankers. Often caused by disease, this may be the problem. A tell-tail symptom of canker is stunted or misshapen leaves.  Usually the only remedy for a canker on the main trunk is proper care.  A properly cared for tree is often able to live with the problem. If this doesn't work, it will eventually die and need to be replaced.  Consider waiting several years or using an unrelated plant in this location to avoid infection if a disease was the cause of death.  Consult a certified arborist if you think cankers are the problem.

Related

Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars


April 3, 2024
Garden Trends 

Franklin Public Library, Franklin, WI

April 10, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Container Gardening Throughout the Year
Register now

April 11, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

7 Steps to Managing Water Where it Falls in Your Yard
Register now

April 17, 2024
Landscaping for Birds: 
A Gardener’s Perspective

Glendale, WI 

April 18, 2024
Be a Waterwise Gardener
Golden Rondelle Theater, Racine, WI
Register now

April 20, 2024
Pruning Hydrangeas and Other Shrubs 
Pasquesi Home & Gardens, Lake Bluff, IL

April 27, 2024
Ridges & Rivers Book Festival
Viroqua, WI

April 28, 2024
Flowering Trees and Shrubs
Ebert's Greenhouse Village, Ixonia, WI

May 1, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

Ornamental Fruits and Vegetables
Register now

May 9, 2024
FREE WEBINAR

How to Plant Your Rain Garden
Register now

WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS

Learn More

Book an Appearance

Learn More

Enter to Win The Birds & Blooms' Ultimate Gardening Guide !

ENTER NOW