Oak Wilt Q & A

We've had so many questions about Oak Wilt closure this year! We're so happy to answer all these questions! We love the interest homeowners are showing in the health and longevity of their trees. , because we want your trees to live their best lives.

What should I do if a limb breaks during oak wilt season?

Remember, Oak Wilt season starts February 1st. After this time, we will not be doing any unnecessary pruning of oaks. However, in the case of broken branches or tree failures that threaten home or property safety, it is possible to remove these specific branches or trees. In such a case, please give us a call and we'll be happy to evaluate what your property needs.

What are the signs of oak wilt?

We've had many folks wondering if their trees are declining due to oak wilt, or something else. We look for leaves that look scorched around the edges, curling leaf tips, and especially in live oaks, the necrosis of leaf veins, which makes the veins in the leaf look yellow or brown. One very important thing to note about live oaks is that they can spread oak wilt between one another through interconnected roots. That means if you have a tree that looks sick near another tree that you really love, get a tree professional out immediately!

Can oak wilt be treated?

Depending on the type of oak, there are some options for prevention, but oak wilt is tough to treat. Red oaks are unfortunately extremely susceptible and generally do not survive long after symptoms start. Live oaks are less susceptible, but still take huge losses if left untreated. Other oak species, like white oaks are still susceptible but have different mechanisms to resist infection. This is another reason why it is so important to have a professional evaluate all the different species of oaks for risk, and the earliest symptoms.

There are preventative treatments that can be very effective. Consider including fungicide treatments, especially for priority oaks that are not yet infected. Trenching, creating trenches in the soil with a blade, to remove connections between live oaks can also safeguard trees from diseased trees. Removal of dead red oaks is important to prevent the spread of further disease from fungal mats that form on infected trees. Fungal mats do not form on live oaks. Another great way to prevent oak wilt from sweeping across your property is to diversify the trees you have on your property. Remember, keep an eye on nearby trees and properties for signs of oak wilt.

Why do we keep talking about oak wilt?

Prevention is absolutely key when it comes to dealing with oak wilt. Once it becomes established on your property, or a neighboring property, it can wreak havoc on your oaks and leave a beautiful hillside dried out and dead. Oak wilt can be tough on the ecosystem, but also tough on your property value when you have a property full of dead trees. If you have oak wilt on your land, or if you suspect you might, give us a call. We'll help you plan for prevention and clear out dead trees that can become hazardous to home and property.

-Wimberley Tree Service