Oak Tree has sap dropping and many small branches dropping - Ask Extension
Greetings: I live in High Meadows Village right across from High Banks Metro park off Powell Road. My Neighbor and I have mature maple/oak trees. I...
Knowledgebase
Oak Tree has sap dropping and many small branches dropping #757130
Asked June 18, 2021, 8:12 PM EDT
Greetings: I live in High Meadows Village right across from High Banks Metro park off Powell Road. My Neighbor and I have mature maple/oak trees. In the last 2 weeks we have notice many small branches dropping with leaves. I have attached a couple of photos. Some of the small branches are dying on the tree and dropping. Wondering if we have a disease. A couple of other neighbors also mentioned they have the same problem other another street close to our street. We also noticed some sap falling from one tree onto my neighbor's car. If I bring in a fresh cut branch can I have it tested for disease?
Delaware County Ohio
Expert Response
While the condition you are observing (called flagging) may be caused by several insects, it is likely that your condition is caused by the recent appearance of the Brood X periodical cicada. The attached fact sheet may provide some information on this that will help you to understand the phenomenom. There is no intervention that is required on your part other than to rake up the fallen twigs.
Thank you for your email and the information. Thank you for being a great resource. Gerlinde
You are welcome.