Sap from oak tree - Ask Extension
I have an oak tree with thick sugary material draining at a height of 2-3 feet from bottom. Material inviting insects. Concern about possible "boring"...
Knowledgebase
Sap from oak tree #641336
Asked May 26, 2020, 4:03 PM EDT
I have an oak tree with thick sugary material draining at a height of 2-3 feet from bottom. Material inviting insects. Concern about possible "boring" causing phenomenon. Also, concern regarding inviting fungi to sugary material. Are concerns valid, and what should we do? (Please see attached photo)
Montgomery County Maryland
Expert Response
This is slime flux, a harmless bacterial occurrence. Here is what you need to know:
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/slime-flux-and-wetwood
If you can see a distinct boring hole at the source of the sap, it could be a borer, but you cannot treat it at this point. Keep an eye on the health of your tree. No treatment is necessary.
Ellen
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/slime-flux-and-wetwood
If you can see a distinct boring hole at the source of the sap, it could be a borer, but you cannot treat it at this point. Keep an eye on the health of your tree. No treatment is necessary.
Ellen
Great. Thanks
Our pleasure.
