Fruitless Mulberry Bark

Question

What would cause bark on mulberry trees to look like it has been scratched on? I am trying to find out what is wrong with my fruitless mulberry trees. One of them has lost all the leaves and looks like the bark has been scratched out in spots. I have now noticed another one is starting to get the same way. I live in southern Az.

Answer 1

It may actually be animals. Deer or other antlered animals will use trees to rub their antlers on. This causes scratches and damage to the bark.

It may also be a canker fungus. There are several that can affect the trees. This guide will help you determine which it might be: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/Publications/SUL11.pdf