Oak trees are magnificent assets to our surrounding environment. They offer us many advantages, including shade, energy efficiency, noise reduction, privacy, wildlife activity, and plenty of aesthetic value. For these reasons and more, oak trees should be treated with care and concern in order to prolong their life and their value. One of the biggest threats to oak trees is a disease known as Oak Wilt.

Continue reading to learn more about Oak Wilt and what you can do to prevent damage to your landscaping trees.

Where Does Oak Wilt Come From?

Oak Wilt is an aggressive fungal tree disease that can affect any and all oak tree species. Red and white oak trees, however, seem to be most susceptible. Oak Wilt is caused by a fungus known as Bretiziella fagacearum that spreads through the air from host to host, killing oak trees. The early weeks of summer is when Oak Wilt seems to be most prevalent, which is why it is important to address any tree disease exposures now. Treating a tree disease early on is the only effective method of preventing further decline and eventual tree fatality.

The Signs of Oak Wilt

The signs of Oak Wilt tree disease are very evident and easy to spot. Initially, you will notice changes in the foliage and canopy. Leaves will wilt, discolor, and shed off the branches located at the top of the crown. From there, additional symptoms will begin to appear, including an abundant amount of foliage loss, formation of fungus mats in the tree bark, sweet odors coming from fungus mats, beetle infestations, and more.

Oak Wilt Treatment Options

The best way to stop a tree from dying of Oak Wilt is to prevent it from acquiring the disease in the first place. To do this, your trees need to be professionally inspected by a Noblesville tree service company to ensure they are in good condition and not susceptible to any seasonal threats. If a tree already has Oak Wilt disease, it can still be saved. Your primary plan of action would be to hire an arborist who will develop and implement a professional treatment plan.

Read our blog, “FAQS About Oak Tree Care“, to help you better protect your Oak trees!

Noblesville Tree Service

Call 317-537-9770 when you need professional tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We are highly trained and experienced tree care technicians that offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. Whether you need routine tree service or major tree work, we are the professionals to trust for outstanding results in a convenient time frame.