How to Treat a Cherry Tree Canker
- 1). Cut away any damaged branches with pruning shears, paying attention to make the cut as clean as possible. Make the cut at least 6 to 12 inches below the canker, or as close to the trunk as possible.
- 2). Remove cankers from the trunk by cutting away the diseased bark and wood with a sharp knife. Cut away the bark and wood in a 3-inch diameter around the canker, once again creating clean cuts to prevent further damage.
- 3). Dispose of the canker-infected wood, bark and braches by burning or burying it at least 6 inches into the ground.
- 4). Clean the tools used to remove the canker with rubbing alcohol to prevent the spread of the bacterial or fungal infection.
- 5). Spray the tree with a copper sulfate fungicide in late September or October to prevent any future fungal cankers. Application during fall will prevent possible damage to the tree's new leaves and blossoms, which emerge in spring.
