Ask Mr. Smarty Plants

According to this USDA Plant Profile Map, the tree is indeed native to Denton County.  We always check this first to make sure a plant belongs where it is growing, because growing out of its native climate and soil can definitely contribute to the problems that plant might be having.

If you follow this link,  Populus deltoides (Eastern cottonwood), to our webpage on it, you will see it has high water needs and the size it has reached probably represents its mature size. We have also noted from other sources that it is considered a fast-growing tree, often planted for quick shade and therefore not particularly long-lived.

The most comprehensive article we found on this article is from the USDA Forest Service. Note especially this comment:

"Numerous disease organisms attack cottonwood. Septoria musiva causes a small canker that opens a path for other canker organisms. Cytospora chrysosperma causes a canker where sites are adverse and tree vigor is low. Fusarium solani enters wounds, particularly after major floods, to cause a canker. Two other canker-producing organisms are Phomopsis macrospora and Botryodiplodia theobromae. On vigorous trees, cankers usually callus over. Melampsora medusae causes leaf rust which results in premature defoliation and reduced growth rate. Marssonina brunnea causes a leaf spot that also results in early defoliation. Septoria musiva, in addition to causing a canker, causes a leaf spot. New leaves may be infected from old leaves or cankers."

From the University of Connecticut, here is another list of liabilities for your tree:

Liabilities

• do not plant near sewers, septic tanks, drains or sidewalks
• suckers
• canker
• short-lived
• too many to name

In summary, we agree with you that the cost of treatment of a slime disease is not worth it. The tree has already probably grown past its healthy maturity, and is, as you noted, a threat to your property. We feel it should come down and that presents yet another list of difficulties. Taking down a tree of that size will not be a do-it-yourself project, there needs to be special equipment and trained personnel to do it without damaging the surrounding area. You mentioned you lived in a mobile home? Do you rent the land for it? If so, the tree should be the responsibility of the landowner. Perhaps you can locate someone who cuts wood for fireplaces that would have the ability to take down the tree, in order to get the wood. Of course, an arborist would be the first choice for that job, but you have already noted there are not many in your area.

About our best advice is to go to our National Suppliers Directory and type in your town and state or just your zip code in the "Enter Search Location" box. This will give you a list of native plant seed companies, nurseries and consultants, which should include arborists, in your general area. All should have contact information, so you can find out in advance estimated charges and when it could be done.