FAQS About Oak Wilt Tree Disease

Oak trees are magnificent parts of our landscapes. So when they begin to show signs of disease or infestation, it is only natural for us to be concerned. Learn about Oak Wilt, a common tree disease that may be the cause of your current Oak tree problems.

Oak Tree Care Indianapolis Indiana 317-348-0811
Oak Tree Care Indianapolis Indiana 317-348-0811

Frequently Asked Questions About Oak Wilt

What is Oak Wilt?

Oak Wilt is one of the most common infectious tree diseases in the country. It is caused by a fungus, Ceratocystis fagacearum. This invasive fungus enters a tree’s vascular tissues and incapacitates the water transportation lines within the tree. And without sufficient levels of water, a tree cannot survive.

Which Oak Tree Species are Most Vulnerable to Oak Wilt?

All Oak trees can become victims of Oak Wilt, however, there are some species that seem to be more susceptible than others. Red Oaks, namely Spanish Oaks, are highly-susceptible, while on the other end of the spectrum, White Oaks are resistant to Ceratocystis fagacearum and are hardly ever affected by the disease. 

Will Oak Wilt Spread to Other Trees?

Oak Wilt is spread in one of two ways. The fungus can be carried from tree to tree by beetles and other insects, or it can spread through grafting roof. If you have an Oak tree that is currently affected, and it is located next to another Oak, there is a good chance the disease will spread through the root systems. However, the disease can also travel over long distances with the help of insects.

What are the Signs of Oak Wilt?

Although signs are hard to tell, you can try inspecting your trees to determine whether or not Oak Wilt is to blame for their decline. Most often, laboratory cultures are the only way to truly know if Oak Wilt is present. White oaks exhibit leaf decline, such as wilting leaves, discolored leaves, dropping leaves, and dead leaves, while red oaks barely show any signs at all. You will need a licensed tree care contractor to help with your tree diagnosis.

How Do I Protect My Tree From Oak Wilt?

Unfortunately, there is no way to control the spread of Oak Wilt, but there are ways to protect your tree from becoming infected. Preventative maintenance is the key to preventing Oak Wilt. This involves routine tree care, such as pruning, fertilizing, and spraying. Proper pruning is important to prevent open wounds in trees. For this same reason, you must also take extreme care when mowing the lawn or weed-trimming. It is also important to properly dispose of trees that were infected, otherwise, spreading will likely occur. An insecticide spray can be used prior to infection, as well.

Is it Possible to Cure an Infected Oak Tree?

Once a tree is infected with Ceratocystis fagacearum, it is a challenge to treat unless the tree is fairly young. The most common technique is to sever the root connections in order to stop the transmission of the fungus. However, this is not always a success if there is a large Oak Wilt epidemic in the area. There are no other current chemical treatments for Oak Wilt. Tree removal and root disconnection are the most effective treatments available. 

Do your oak trees require some professional tree trimming or pruning this season? Contact Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 for licensed and insured tree service in Indianapolis, Indiana and its surrounding counties. We provide residential and commercial tree work.

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How to Take Down a Large Oak Tree

Oak trees are a beautiful and naturally occurring part of American landscapes. They are widely admired for their abundant flora of dark green leaves and tiny fruits we call acorns.  Outside of aesthetic appeal, oaks are well-known for the hard and sturdy wood they provide various modern day industries. Although oak trees are magnificent parts of nature, they can sometimes require transportation or removal for various reasons.  When an oak tree needs to be removed, there are several factors to consider for safe and effective results.

Continue reading to learn how to remove a large oak tree safely and effectively, and who to call for professional and affordable assistance.

Oak Tree Removal 317-348-0811
Oak Tree Removal 317-348-0811

Safety is Vital For Any Oak Tree Removal Project

An oak tree may need to be extracted for a number of reasons.  For example, dead, diseased, or dying oak trees pose a safety threat to all its surroundings.  In this case, it is responsible and highly recommended to remove the oak before an accident occurs.  Also, oak trees may be impeding metropolitan areas, housing developments, and more.  No matter what the reason, oak tree removal needs to be carried out accurately and carefully in all cases.

It is highly suggested to use a professional tree service company to remove oaks trees for all types of properties. Oak trees are mighty and strong, and their roots can reach incredible depths.  It requires extensive time and effort to properly remove an oak tree, especially if you wish to keep it alive and plant it elsewhere.  Licensed tree removal companies commonly retain the proper industry equipment, tools, and training to remove all species of trees, including oaks.

FAQS About Oak Tree Care

It is important to consult an Indianapolis tree service professional for instruction and advice on removing oak trees.  Tree removal is a dangerous job when it comes to large oaks.  Never attempt to cut down a large tree on your own.  There are specifics, guidelines, and rules surrounding the tree cutting industry.  Be sure to talk to a licensed specialist before making any tree removal decisions.

Where to Get Professional Oak Tree Removal in Indianapolis, Indiana

Call Timberland Tree Care at 317-348-0811 to schedule professional oak tree removal in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are licensed and experienced tree care contractors who offer a wide range of residential and commercial tree work at all scopes. Whether you need just one tree taken down, or an entire lot cleared, we are the pros to trust for quality work at the right price.

Timberland Tree Care Indianapolis, Indiana
Timberland Tree Care 317-348-0811