Trees in the White oak subgenus, such as Burr oak and Chinkapin oak, can generally be treated for oak wilt and will recover within a year of treatment. Treatment will not save an infected red oak. Trees in the red oak group generally die rapidly, usually within weeks or months after infection. (Oof that sounds really terrible!)Īll oaks are susceptible to Oak Wilt, however the Red oak subgenus, including Pin oak, Scarlet oak and Black oak are most affected. Unfortunately, the tree is then unable to move water and nutrients to its leaves, slowly starving and dehydrating itself in the process. In order to eliminate the fungus, the tree blocks infected areas of the vascular system, eliminating necessary water from the fungus. Oak Wilt is caused by a fungus which invades the tree’s vascular system (right beneath the bark) and feeds off the tree’s translocating water. This disease is a major problem in the eastern and central United States, including the greater Madison area and all of southern Wisconsin where we’re located. It has the potential to take out red oaks in just one season. Oak wilt is caused by a fungus ( Ceratocystis fagacearum) that affects nearly all species of oaks and is particularly aggressive when contracted by Red Oaks. In this article we’ll explore what causes oak wilt, which trees are susceptible, what homeowners can do to prevent it, and oak wilt treatment options. Oaks are one of the most majestic and beautiful trees on Earth and the emergence of oak wilt disease has threatened to destroy many of the mighty oaks we all love.

Hoa covenant oak wilt