Cankers

Cankers are shallow, often crater-like wounds that appear on plants, usually on stems, branches, or trunks. They occur when a plant's tissue is damaged or infected by fungi, bacteria, or environmental stress, causing the tissue to die and form a visible sore. Cankers can weaken the overall health of the plant, lead to branch dieback, and sometimes create entry points for additional infections. Proper management includes pruning affected areas, improving plant health, and avoiding injury. Addressing cankers early helps prevent spreading and preserves the plant's vigor.