Oak Wilt Season Closure: What It Means for You and Your Property

Every year in Central Texas, there is a seasonal closure for oak tree trimming and removal aimed at preventing the spread of oak wilt, a deadly fungal disease that affects live oaks and red oaks. Understanding this closure, and why it matters, can help you protect your trees and your property.

Why Oak Wilt Season Matters

Oak wilt spreads primarily from beetles that are attracted to fresh pruning wounds. During spring months, these beetles are more active and can carry the disease from infected trees to healthy ones. Once an oak becomes infected, oak wilt can spread quickly through root systems and can lead to massive tree loss. To reduce the exposure of beetle-attracting wounds on oaks during this time, professional tree services avoid pruning or removing healthy oak trees during oak wilt season unless it is absolutely necessary.

When Oak Wilt Season Occurs

In Central Texas, oak wilt season typically runs from early spring through mid-summer, February 1st- June 30th. During this time, trimming healthy oak trees is strongly discouraged unless there is an immediate safety concern, such as storm damage or a hazardous limb.

Plan Ahead

If you have oak trees near your home, driveway, or other structures, planning ahead is key. Routine trimming should be completed before oak wilt season begins to reduce risk and avoid delays. Once the season starts, non-emergency oak work may need to wait until cooler months.

What If You Miss the Oak Trimming Window?

Missed the oak trimming deadline? Don’t panic. If oak wilt season has already started, it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Non-emergency trimming of healthy oaks is best postponed until cooler months, but emergency situations (storm damage, fallen limbs, immediate hazards) can still be addressed. If you’re unsure whether your situation qualifies as an emergency or can wait, a professional assessment can help you avoid unnecessary risk.

Protecting Your Property and Trees

We love our trees! We know you love your trees too. We want to work with you to keep them healthy for years to come. Following oak wilt guidelines helps protect not only your trees, but neighboring properties as well. In the case of oak wilt, proper timing of professional care makes a significant difference in the long term survival of oak trees in Central Texas.

Professional Oak Tree Care in the Hill Country

At Wimberley Tree Service, we follow best practices for oak wilt prevention and help property owners plan tree work around seasonal restrictions. If you’re unsure whether your oak trees need attention now or can wait, don't hesitate to reach out!

-Wimberley Tree Service