How to Identify Texas Oak Wilt

Texas oak wilt can be identified by looking closely at patterns of tree mortality and any foliar symptoms they may be exhibiting. Our Arborists here at Advanced Tree & Shrub Care have the experience, education, knowledge to give a diagnosis while on the property so you don’t have to wait for a confirmation of analysis to come sometimes days, weeks, months later. Who can afford that, especially when Red Oaks perish within a month, and act as a point of transmission. Fungal mats found on Red Oaks only are a end indicator of infection, a laboratory isolation of the fungus sent in will confirm that.

Foliar Symptoms

Live oaks infected with the fungus will show discoloration in their leaves. This is a symptom called ‘vein branding’ in which the leaf vein will appear as a darker green than the rest of the leaf. A symptom called ‘venial necrosis’ quickly follows, causing yellow leaf veins which gradually turn brown. While leaves may show other odd coloration patterns, none are as reliable as looking for veinal necrosis when you’re looking for oak wilt in a live oak. It is sometimes possible to find dead leaves with brown veins under an infected tree for months after defoliation. Treatment is much more successful.

Symptoms of oak wilt in red oaks are comparatively difficult to see. Mature leaves will often turn dark green before turning pale and going bronze from the outside edges inward while new leaves will simply remain pale green and quickly wilt. Diseased red oaks are easier to spot in the summer months due to their autumn-like coloring. When caught early, success is good and preventative treatment even better when a tree has been diagnosed in the area.

Tree Mortality

Mortality patterns will reveal a lot about the health of oaks in the area. Infected live oaks will often die over the course of one-to-six months, while red oaks will not often last longer than four weeks after the initial symptoms of infection.Most companies and even Municipalities recommend after diagnosis treatment or removal, depending on the stage of the disease. Here in the private sector, research is ongoing with the varying medicines, dosages and techniques in application. Advanced Tree & Shrub Care has understood for many years where others haven’t that treating for the disease is only a part of being successful. Upgrading health through nutrition and eliminating the insect vectors is crucial. In addition Arborist recommend cultural practices for the property.

Fungal Mats

Fungal mats are specialized, spore-producing structures which can sometimes be found on red oaks during the spring. If searching for fungal mats, look for small, inconspicuous cracks in the bark which lead to a small hallow space between the wood and the outer bark. These mats often smell faintly of fermented fruit. ATC Inc. recommends removal and destroying specimen.

Contact Advanced Tree & Shrub Care to schedule a tree assessment or learn more about Texas Oak Wilt.