How much do you know about spotting a dying oak tree in Southern Maryland? Read some tips on how to recognize a dying oak tree and what to do about it.
Did you know that out of all tree species, oak trees are the most likely to be struck by lightning?
Lightning can be lethal to oak trees, but it’s not the only thing that can kill them. Old age, diseases, and poor conditions can also end the lives of even the most majestic oak.
Are you wondering if you have a dying oak tree on your hands? If so, continue reading to find out some of the top signs that an oak tree is dying, and what remedial actions you can take.
Wilting or Falling Leaves
One of the dying oak symptoms that’s easy to spot is wilting or falling leaves. If your oak tree’s leaves suddenly wilt or start falling off out of season—this is a sign that there’s something seriously wrong.
Wilting or dropping leaves could signal severe nutrient or water deficiency.
Oak trees can survive on moderate to low rainfall. But if conditions are very dry, this can trigger wilting, and leaf fall in drought conditions.
Wilted leaves can also be an indication of a disease commonly known as “oak wilt”.
Oak wilt is caused by a fungal pathogen called Ceratocystis fagacearum. This fungus blocks the vascular system of the tree, effectively cutting off the nutrient and water supply to the leaves.
This disease usually only causes symptoms in the scarlet, black, pin, or red oak tree, and is most common in closely spaced oak trees.
If your oak tree’s leaves are mysteriously wilting or falling off out of season, the first thing to do is figure out if it’s lacking in water.
Fungus Growing From the Base
Do you have mushrooms or other fungus species growing out of the base of your oak? If so, you probably have a dying oak tree on your hands.
Fungus growth out of the base of live oak trees is an indication of severe root decay. When root decay progresses to this point, it is usually irreversible.
If you spot fungus growth at the base of oak trees, the best course of action is to call in a tree removal service.
Dead Upper Branches
Another potential sign of a dying oak tree is dead upper branches. If the tallest branches on an oak tree are dead, this is usually an indication that the tree has reached the end of its natural lifespan, or that its health is seriously compromised.
Do You Have a Dying Oak Tree on Your Property?
If you suspect you have a dying oak tree on your property, the best thing to do is call in a company that offers professional tree trimming services. Their tree specialists will be able to evaluate if there is any chance of saving the tree. If there is, they will be able to prescribe the correct treatment.
If your oak tree is dying and there’s no way to stop it, the tree service can safely remove it for you.
855TREEMAN is a professional service focusing on helping homeowners deal with any and all problems related to Southern Maryland trees. We employ specialists that are adept at diagnosing and treating trees in Maryland. We also have a full-scale team available for trimming and removing trees.
Contact us today to schedule a call-out.