East Hampshire District Council had to remove a lime tree at the village pond recently because of its dangerous condition.
Because of the immediate danger, officials at the District Council were only able to give limited notice to the community but they have explained that the tree had been under review for the past three years.
The tree had a disease called Kretzschmaria deusta and had reached a dangerous condition leading them to request a tree surgeon to remove it immediately.
Kretzschmaria deusta is considered to be one of the most dangerous to trees as it attacks the root system as well as the heartwood. Lower stem buttresses and principal roots are particularly susceptible.
The disease (a fungus) creates a ‘soft rot’ which decays the trunk and/or roots of living trees and can lead to sudden catastrophic failures with little or no warning. In Buriton, the whole of the lime tree could possibly have come crashing down into the community car park, injuring anyone nearby.
More often than not, trees infected with Kretzschmaria deusta are recommended to be felled as soon as possible because of the rapid deterioration of trees affected by this fungus.
As well as limes, trees commonly affected are beech, sycamore and maples although it may occur on any species.
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the disease, the Parish Council has been informed that it is considered that a replacement is not appropriate.
Anyone with any further queries can contact either Martin Healey (Principal Countryside Officer) or his colleague Jenny Woodgate at EHDC via 01730 234102.
