What is alcoholic flux in trees?

There’s a strange and rare disease that many tree species are susceptible to, but the name often makes people scratch their heads in puzzlement. Is called alcoholic flowbut it is also known by the name foamy flowand is often confused with other similar tree diseases such as bacterial flow, slime flowand wet wood. It is more likely to happen to trees that are in vulnerable states, such as old trees, infested trees, dry trees, or injured trees. Read on to learn how trees get this damaging disease and where it gets its strange name.

foamy flux tree disease

There is a wide range of bacteria found in water and soil. When a tree has an open wound, or is in a state of decay, bacteria can seep into the tree, initially affecting the bark and cambium layers. This creates anaerobic conditions within the tree, causing gas production and ultimately immense pressure below the bark. This is where the disease gets its name.

Foam occurs as a result of gas and pressure buildup. The foam usually starts to appear at the base of a tree trunk, making it look like the tree is sitting in a bubble bath. It also oozes from open wounds and cracks within the bark. This foam is the reason why the foamy flux is called an alcoholic flux. If you get close enough, you will smell something similar to beer.

This smell, along with the fact that the foam resembles the foam of an ice-cold concoction, is where the disease gets its strange nickname. The reason it smells like fermented alcohol is because the foam itself is fermented inside the tree as a result of bacterial invasion. Other types of bacterial diseases, such as slime flow and bacterial flow, attack and affect the hardwood of a tree. On the contrary, the alcoholic flow does not, so the signs are less obvious.

potential risks

Although it has a silly name and sillier appearance, foamy flux is not something to be taken lightly. It can be harmful to trees, as well as plants and grass. It can also cause other undesirable problems, such as pest infestations and nuisance interference with wildlife. It’s not uncommon to see bugs, ants, and other pests drinking from the frothy foam! Keep in mind that chemical treatments are generally ineffective for this type of tree disease. The best way to protect your trees from foamy flux is to make sure they remain healthy and uninjured.