Knowledgebase
Oak tree problem #869014
Asked May 18, 2024, 12:37 PM EDT
Geauga County Ohio
Expert Response
I believe you have two things going on in your oak trees. the holes are caused by Oak shothole leafminer which is a small fly that emerges in early spring to feed on young leaves and buds by piercing them with its ovipositor. This feeding activity happens as the leaves are still in the bud or as they’re unfurling. Depending on when it occurs, it can even create symmetrical patterns on the right and left sides of the leaf.
The brown patches are probably Oak anthracnose: A fungal disease that's active in wet and cool spring weather, causing brown and diseased looking areas at the tips or edges of the leaves.
https://bygl.osu.edu/node/1296 This link is an article about both these problems. Once you see the damage it is too late to do anything about them, but they will not cause any permanent damage to the tree. At our house we like to say, "It's a long way from its heart." It is mostly cosmetic and worrisome to the homeowner.
If you have any other questions, you can consult your local Extension professional. I have included the contact information for the Geauga County office.
14269 Claridon-Troy Road
P.O. Box 387
Burton, OH 44021
Phone:
<personal data hidden>
<personal data hidden>