wet roots

my very large walnut tree has got a wet patch at its base on digging down i find that the roots of my walnut tree are sodden and literaly running with water what is wrong whith it ???? please help me somone i dont want to lose this amazing tree///

 

Sounds like less to do with the walnut tree, and more to do with a water source to me. Have you got any water pipes or drains in the immediate area, or some building nearby that has diverted a stream- the tree will not be happy with that kind of environment, - as first aid while you identify the problem, can you dig a trench sloping down away from the tree to drain the water away.

 

thanx fran, but there are no services near to the tree and i know it has been there for the last 100 years or so and it is only recently that this wet patch has appeared it is very strange i was wondering if it had some sort of basal rot, it has produced masses of fruit over the years and there seems to be nothing wrong with the leaf shape or structure of the tree in fact it looks reasonably healthy

 

Rot would not cause water to run - it would just be damp and nasty and with a tree this healthy sounds very unlikely. Your description suggests that there is a water problem but the source is the question. As this is obviously a well loved tree I would suggest urgently finding a qualified tree expert to confirm this, - not a tree surgeon - and then if so a surveyor. Have you got a really good garden centre who could provide you with a specialist.

 

thanx again fran this is a real mystery i think i will take your advice and find a specialist
cheers