I'm a beginner and think I committed a cardinal sin: letting mulch get too close to the trunk of this magnolia planted two years ago. Is it possibly just a fungus among us? Is it treatable or should I put it out of its misery? Any advice is greatly appreciated.
Third photo is one a few hours after letting it dry out from the rain and mulch surrounding it.
It may just be surface mould on the bark, not harming the tree. Exposure to the air should soon kill it off. Wait to see how the tree does through the summer.
Resin
If the weather will be clear for a week or so, sprinkle cinnamon on the area as it is a natural fungicide/bactericide/insecticide that might dry it out a bit and prevent it from getting worse. I'd kinda cake it on if you can like a compress.
Thank you both so much. I'm relieved to know it might be salvageable. I'll try the cinnamon tomorrow as it's been raining all weekend. This was my first post as a new subscriber to this forum and I am beyond thankful for the help of those more knowledgeable than myself.
No problem. I noticed you're a new member and subscriber. Welcome aboard!
Thanks, Growin! Long time listener, first time caller. ;-) I just caked on some cinnamon this morning, so I'll cross my fingers and give an update soon.
Let us know how it works out and if the fungal issues clear up. It might take a while to heal and dry out.
