Causes, Cures, and Prevention for Oak Wilt Disease

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

Noblesville Tree Service 317-537-9770

Oak trees are susceptible to many tree diseases, but one of the most common infections they may encounter in the Eastern and Central regions of the United States is called Oak Wilt. Oak Wilt is a fungal infection caused by the fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum.

All species of Oak can become infected with this disease, however, it is more common in Red Oak subgenus species, such as Black, Red, Scarlet, Hills, and Pin. This is in contrast to White Oak subgenus species, including White, Swamp White, Bur, English, and Chinquapin.

Red Oak species can die or decline rapidly after coming down with Oak Wilt, usually within weeks or months, while White Oak species generally experience a slower decline. But not all infected trees die; some species of White Oak have been known to spring back after one year or so.

Causes and Symptoms

Oak wilt is mostly spread through transmission of root graphs. Sometimes, when trees are within 50 feet of one another, their underground root systems will actually fuse together and share the same vascular system. This network of tree roots allows the Oak Wilt fungus to transmit freely among trees. This is why it is common to see an entire string of infected trees. Oak Wilt can also be spread through beetles carrying fungal spores from tree to tree.

The fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum, invades the Xylem (tissues or vessels that conduct water dispersal in trees), which prompts a tree to essentially clog its own water distribution system. This, of course, inhibits the normal rate of water flow from the roots to the canopy of the tree, resulting in a wide range of symptoms and after-effects. The most distinguishable effect is wilting leaves and foliage, hence the name “Oak Wilt.”

Common Symptoms in Red Oaks

Oak Wilt in Red Oak subgenus species usually begins at the tree’s canopy, and simultaneously works its way downward and inward throughout the tree. This is made evident by leaf discoloration (grayish-green or brown tips), complete defoliation, weakened bark, fungal mats and patches, fruity odor, sticky sap-like fluid production, insect infestation (namely picnic beetles and bark beetles), and more.

Common Symptoms in White Oaks

Common symptoms of Oak Wilt in White Oaks are nearly the same as the symptoms seen in Red Oak subgenus species. The only difference is the time-frame in which the symptoms appear and last. White Oaks experience symptoms slower, usually between 1 and 6 years, and also more localized on the tree, such as its branches. And they do not lose all their leaves.

Cures and Control

There is still no way to really cure an infected Oak Tree. Some have found that fertilizer tree injections directly into the root system can be an effective form of treatment. But often times, tree removal is the best option. Prevention is the most effective way to prevent your Oak Trees from becoming infected with Oak Wilt and other diseases. Professional, routine tree care is a viral part of protecting your landscaping trees, as well as, proper pruning, mulching, watering, and fertilizing. Talk to your local tree service specialist for professional advice regarding proper tree care.

Noblesville Tree Service

Tree Service Noblesville 317-537-9770

Tree Service Noblesville 317-537-9770

Call 317-537-9770 for professional tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We are experienced tree care contractors that offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree services at the most competitive prices in town. We even offer tree service coupons and discounts! Call 317-537-9770 to request a free estimate for Noblesville tree service, today.

Common Tree Diseases to Watch Out For

Tree diseases are common reasons for tree removal. There are four particular illnesses that trees fall victim to quite often. These infections, infestations, ailments, and sicknesses all have a devastating effect on trees, and can quickly lead to their demise. Continue reading to quickly learn four common tree diseases that can kill trees, and that property owners should be on the look for.

Elm Disease

In the early 1900’s, oversea shipments brought in non-native beetles. Today, these beetles like to burrow into a variety of elm trees, and take down the plant fast. Elms that are already infected with a fungal disease are even easier for these Dutch beetles to invade, making them popular targets. If the leaves of an Elm tree begin to turn yellow, or die, right before Fall, it could be a sign of elm disease. In this case, the tree would need to be treated; otherwise tree removal is the only option.

Heart Rot

This disease attacks hardwood trees. The name basically describes the signs of a tree with this condition. The disease begins to weaken the tree’s structure and stability from within; all while cause branches to weaken and break as well. This can be potentially dangerous for any structure or person near this type of infected tree. Mushroom caps and fungus are common hints of heart rot as well. Treatment is possible, but very complicated. Expert pruning and dead wooding could save a rotting hardwood tree. Basically, it is important to promote as much healthy growth as possible through pruning and dead wooding.

Oak Wilt

Insects or root graphs carry this disease to trees. It is much deadlier than heart rot, but has the same effect. One the spores have entered the tree it can take as little as six months to kill the host completely. Oak Wilt cannot be treated, but it can be detected and prevented. Any tree near the infected tree runs risk to the disease as well. Professional tree services can properly prune and seal wounds to rid the tree of Oak Wilt.

Chestnut Blight

When a tree becomes infected with Chestnut Blight, it is similar to when humans become infected with small pox. American Chestnut Trees were near extinction in the early 1900’s because of this infection. Signs that include, cankers and orange-brown stains on the bark can indicate Chestnut Blight Disease. Treatment involves chemical tree injections, so professional assistance is highly advised in this situation.

Tree Service Noblesville Indiana

Tree Service Noblesville IN

Tree Service Noblesville 317-537-9770

Call 317-537-9770 for professional and affordable tree service in Noblesville, Indiana. We are highly trained and qualified arborists that provide a wide range of commercial and residential tree services at the most competitive prices in town. We offer free estimates, tree removal coupons, and much more! Call 317-537-9770 to learn more about our Noblesville tree removal services, prices, and availability, today!