City warning residents about black knot growth

The City of Cold Lake is raising awareness about an annual problem that comes around each spring–black knot.

Black knot is a fungus that causes brown and black knot-like swelling on the branches of the trees. If left untreated, black knot will eventually kill the tree and potentially spread to others.

The city suggests handling the fungus in these ways:

• Prune out infected branches now, while the plants are dormant and the knots are easier to see.
• Remove the infected branches to at least 15-20 cm (6-8 inches) below the knot.
• Sterilize cutting tools with bleach between each cut to prevent further spread of the disease.
• Bring infected branches to the burning bins at the Waste Transfer Station to be disposed of, free of charge.
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For more information, email parks@coldlake.com