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Willow Oak Tree Issue #679158

Asked January 15, 2021, 2:44 PM EST

I have a very old willow oak tree on 12th and T St NW. As I was pruning some small branches, I discovered these odd bubbly growths on what otherwise appears to be healthy wood. The inside of the growths has a sponge-like consistency and ranges in color from white to dark brown. Do you have any thoughts of what they are? Is there something I should do about them? Thanks, Mike

District of Columbia County District of Columbia

Expert Response

I did an image search on the growths and I think they are gouty and horned twig galls.  Other than pruning the affected branches, should I do anything else?

Thanks,
Mike

On Fri, Jan 15, 2021 at 2:44 PM Ask Extension <personal data hidden>> wrote:

Dear mike,

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YOUR QUESTION #0003972:

Willow Oak Tree Issue

I have a very old willow oak tree on 12th and T St NW. As I was pruning some small branches, I discovered these odd bubbly growths on what otherwise appears to be healthy wood. The inside of the growths has a sponge-like consistency and ranges in color from white to dark brown. Do you have any thoughts of what they are? Is there something I should do about them? Thanks, Mike

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Mike Will
<personal data hidden>
The Question Asker Replied January 15, 2021, 2:58 PM EST

Hello Mike,

No, no actions need to be taken, even though gall infestations/infections can be alarmingly prominent and sometimes extensive. (In this case, the two you mention are caused by tiny wasps.) Insect galls do not demonstrably negatively impact the health of the tree overall, though as you mention, minor and unsightly occurrences can be pruned out as desired. It's possible galls will serve as food sources for other wildlife, such as parasites of the gall-making species or birds which could peck-open the structure to get at the insect inside.

Miri

Okay thanks Miri.  Have a great weekend.

Mike

On Fri, Jan 15, 2021 at 3:15 PM Ask Extension <personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied January 15, 2021, 3:47 PM EST

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