Mistletoe is a parasite that lives off the tree it grows on. It deprives the tree’s leaves of nutrients and clogs the veins, eventually weakening or even killing the tree. Therefore, it should be removed.
Appearance: Large clumps of green foliage with lime-colored berries.
Mistletoe can grow into the trunk of a tree, which is very difficult to prevent. Its growth can extend from the middle section of the tree’s canopy all the way to the top. It is most noticeable during the winter months when the tree’s foliage has dropped.
Cause: Birds deposit seeds onto trees, which then germinate and grow into mistletoe.
Prevention: Little, if any.
Control: Patience and consistent annual pruning are required. The best technique is to cut behind the mistletoe growth. In some cases, topping the tree may be the only solution.
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