A fungal disease that effects the vascular system of oak trees. The wilt is
caused by blocked xylem in the tree similar to soda straws being blocked. Red
Oaks and Live Oaks are highly susceptible.
How do I know if my trees are infected?
The symptoms of Oak Wilt are expressed in two primary ways. Sections of the
Oak canopy will have an oily green appearance then rapidly turn tan colored as
the foliage dries. Rapid shedding of leaves with a variety of the same
symptoms o n fallen leaves. There is no effective treatment.
To properly have your tree diagnosed you must have an Arborist inspect the
tree.
How is Oak Wilt transmitted?
Pruning without disinfecting your pruner between trees can transmit Oak
Wilt.
It can also be transmitted by root contact. Mature oak roots can reach 90
feet or more from the trunk. Roots that contact each other will "graft" or
grow together.
Or, by the Nitidulid Sap Feeding Beetle which can be attracted to a "fungal
mat" produced by infected trees.
How is Oak Wilt treated?
We recommend you call a certified Arborist to treat the tree. Call the retail store if you need us to recommend one to you.
Which trees should I treat?
Your Arborist will generally recommend treating all Oaks on the property,
and certainly all that could potentially form root grafts. This will vary from
site to site and will usually not include trees already showing active
symptoms.
If I keep my trees healthy will they be less susceptible to infection by
the Oak Wilt fungus?
No, it is unfortunate that this is not the case. This is an aggressive
vascular wilt disease and a tree, which is genetically predisposed to
infection by the fungus.
