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Details about oak Infestation #872385

Asked June 10, 2024, 11:09 AM EDT

Hi. My oak tree is completely covered with round suction cup like thinkgs that blow off all over the place and are very unsightly. Initisl inquiries say maybe gall infestation not treatable without injection that impacts acorns etc on the tree. I want to know likelihood of having same problem in successive years as it is very disgusting and will have tree removed if it will likely be an annual problem with no good solution. Any information appreciated

Union County Ohio

Expert Response

Hello Becky,

Your gall infestation is caused by an oak gall wasp. Have you seen any small wasps in your area? There is little you can do except do a good fall leaf removal and destruction of the infected leaves. Pruning of the twigs that have this infection will help. A local arborist can tell you if it possible to treat your tree. This problem is one that will no harm the tree but as you said it is unsightly.


Resources:

Leaf galls common to oak trees - Indiana Yard and Garden - Purdue Consumer HorticulturePurdue University Indiana Yard and Garden – Purdue Consumer Horticulture

http://www.mmsend49.com/link.cfm?r=<personal data hidden>&sid=76094969&m=10266307&u=PURDUE2&j=28022341&s=http://extension.entm.purdue.edu/publications/E-56.pdf

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/mulching-trees-and-shrubs/

Horned & Gouty Oak Galls Identification, Symptoms & Management | Davey Tree


Joe Lansing Replied June 13, 2024, 7:19 PM EDT
Thank you.  Do you know the likelihood of it being a problem year after year?

On Thu, Jun 13, 2024 at 7:20 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 13, 2024, 7:28 PM EDT

Becky,

It is 50/50 chance.



Joe Lansing Replied June 18, 2024, 10:15 PM EDT

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