Mistletoe: No Christmas magic on the golf course

Christmas time and mistletoe – a romantic combination. According to ancient custom, standing under the evergreen mistletoe and kissing is said to bring happiness in love. But many people don’t know this: The plants, which live without their own roots, are more than just pretty decorations. In the wild, they can pose a serious threat to trees, especially fruit trees in orchards, which can be found on many golf courses.

Why mistletoe is problematic

Mistletoe is spreading and infesting more and more fruit trees, especially apple trees. Their semi-parasitic way of life makes them particularly harmful to trees: mistletoe draws water and important nutrients from the tree, severely restricting the vitality and growth of the host trees. This effect is particularly pronounced in dry or cold phases and, in extreme cases, can lead to the death of the tree. Trees that are not regularly cared for are particularly at risk. Nature has given mistletoe a particularly efficient propagation strategy. Its sticky, white berries attract numerous bird species such as mistletoe thrushes, song thrushes and junipers. The seeds stick to the birds’ beaks or are spread via their droppings, often over long distances. The mistletoe begins to flower and spread as early as five years after establishment – a vicious circle for the affected trees.

Effective control

Regular care of the fruit trees is essential to contain the spread of mistletoe. The ideal time to combat mistletoe is during the leafless phase in winter. During this time, mistletoe is particularly visible and the affected branches can be targeted for removal.

• Infested branches should be cut back at least 30-50 cm deep into the healthy wood.
• Just cutting off the mistletoe is effective and usually has little effect.