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Oak tree heart rot #764607

Asked July 29, 2021, 12:26 PM EDT

Three giant oaks provide gorgeous shade to our home. One has all the signs of heart rot. Will this spread to the other two oaks? What can I do to slow or stop progression? Thank you. Mary Roberts

Cass County Minnesota

Expert Response

The rot will probably not affect the other trees. However, if the tree fails, it may fall and damage the other trees (and anything else nearby, such as the deck from which one photo was taken).  Once the rot is in the tree, the damage has already been done. There is not much you can do to slow it down. Please read here:
https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/2007/6-27/wood_rot.html

I would urge you to contact a certified arborist to determine if the tree is a hazard to property or people:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist
Dennis in St. Louis Park Replied July 29, 2021, 6:57 PM EDT


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On Jul 29, 2021, at 5:57 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied July 30, 2021, 8:12 AM EDT
Thank you, Dennis! I really appreciate your prompt reply and helpful information. 
Mary 
Sent from my iPhone

On Jul 29, 2021, at 5:57 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied July 30, 2021, 8:17 AM EDT

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