Have you noticed a stinky weeping spot on the bark of your tree?
This is a common symptom of Bacterial Wetwood or Slime Flux.
The bacteria are attacking wood cell walls, which causes the moisture content of the wood to increase. The pressure from gasses builds up under the bark and eventually finds a place for release. The same happens with people and animals with an infection.
The oozing liquid is actually fermented sap, and is the result of the tree trying to compartmentalize the damage. Insects will gather to feed off the sugars and colonies of yeast-like fungi will often grow, causing the sap to have a foul smell.
There is no treatment for Slime Flux, but a healthy tree with few stresses should be able to eventually seal off the damage, as the vascular system recovers. Unfortunately, Silk Trees or Albizia julibrissin, seem to be particularly susceptible, and frequently struggle to overcome the infection.
If your tree has Slime Flux, it’s important you maintain its health so other pathogens don’t take advantage of a tree that is already compromised.
Removing deadwood, correct pruning techniques, healthy soil, consistent moisture levels, and good mulching will always help your tree to be ready to face anything nature throws at it.