Trimming Oak branches - Ask Extension
Is it possible to trim small branches ( less than an inch in diameter) new ground level or 4-8" branches 20-40 ft above ground on 60-80 ft oak tr...
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Trimming Oak branches #868200
Asked May 13, 2024, 1:15 PM EDT
Is it possible to trim small branches ( less than an inch in diameter) new ground level or 4-8" branches 20-40 ft above ground on 60-80 ft oak trees even though it is after April 15?
I live on 3 acres of woods and don't want to take any risk but would like to trim a few.
Is there a way to trim and eliminate the risk of Oak Blight?
thanks,
Ottawa County Michigan
Expert Response
Hi Dave,
To eliminate the risk of oak wilt at this time, you must paint the wound immediately after trimming the branch. You may use any kind of water based paint (not petroleum based) and the painting should be done within a minute or two of the branch being cut. Thoroughly cover all areas of freshly exposed wood.
The reason is that nitidulid beetles are immediately attracted to fresh wounds on an oak tree, and the beetles are also known to feast on the fungal fruiting bodies produced by oak wilt. So, there is a high risk of the nitidulid beetle depositing spores on the fresh wound, which will cause the fungus to begin growing within the live wood of the tree. The nitidulid population numbers are highest from April 15-July 15th in Michigan.
I've attached a comprehensive guide to oak wilt to this message.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you!
-Julie
To eliminate the risk of oak wilt at this time, you must paint the wound immediately after trimming the branch. You may use any kind of water based paint (not petroleum based) and the painting should be done within a minute or two of the branch being cut. Thoroughly cover all areas of freshly exposed wood.
The reason is that nitidulid beetles are immediately attracted to fresh wounds on an oak tree, and the beetles are also known to feast on the fungal fruiting bodies produced by oak wilt. So, there is a high risk of the nitidulid beetle depositing spores on the fresh wound, which will cause the fungus to begin growing within the live wood of the tree. The nitidulid population numbers are highest from April 15-July 15th in Michigan.
I've attached a comprehensive guide to oak wilt to this message.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thank you!
-Julie
