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small balls on oak tree #730963

Asked October 16, 2020, 4:14 PM EDT

Hi, I have noticed some small balls on our oak tree leaves. They are fuzzy and approximately 1/8" in diameter. They are in clusters, primarily along the spine of the leaves. I think galls are larger and have more of a papery exterior, so I don't think these are oak galls. Can you tell me what they are & if I need to do anything about them? Thanks!

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

There are many types of leaf galls. Based on your photo this looks like the galls on the leaf were most likely produced by a wasp. Chemicals produced by the wasp egg laying and feeding activities cause galls. The chemicals cause the affected plant cells to swell. No control is necessary.  Take a look at the MSUE article for more information on galls.

https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/not_all_galls_are_created_equal_in_the_plant_world
An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 17, 2020, 7:53 AM EDT
Thanks!  That was very helpful -- I'm glad to know that my oak is not endangered  :-)
The Question Asker Replied October 17, 2020, 10:20 AM EDT
You're welcome
An Ask Extension Expert Replied October 17, 2020, 4:49 PM EDT

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