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Southern Red Oak disease #875057

Asked June 28, 2024, 8:19 AM EDT

Last week I noticed about 6 - 7 small tips of branches from the Southern Red Oak in my yard had dropped to the ground. They each appeared to have mostly healthy leaves, but some with brown leaf spots. My research suggests possibly bacterial leaf scorch. Can you confirm? I have been watering in the recent extreme heat, but do you have any other recommendations for reducing the stress and wilting this tree is showing?

Anne Arundel County Maryland

Expert Response

Unfortunately the photo file size is too small for us to enlarge to see enough detail, but it doesn't appear to be Bacterial Leaf Scorch, which is usually much more extensive along the leaf margins. A different kind of leaf spot or anthracnose is more likely, and probably not a serious threat to long-term tree health. Fungicide use is not recommended for this situation, nor would it be able to cure existing symptoms. The branch tip dropping itself might be due to squirrel gnawing or the work of Twig Girdler or Twig Pruner beetles, though it might be a little early to see damage from their chewing. Both are fairly inconsequential, especially on a tree that is not very young (and neither would not likely bother a tree that small).

Other than the monitoring for watering needs that you have been doing, no other action is needed at this time. If symptoms worsen or change, though, feel free to send us additional photos.

Miri
Miri,

Thank you so much for your reply.  I just found it in my junk mail folder, so I am just now responding.  

I am happy to hear that it does not appear to be serious.  We are continuing to water at least weekly during these hot, dry summer days.

Enjoy your 4th of July!

Karen



From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> on behalf of Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Friday, June 28, 2024 4:53 PM
To: Karen Edgecombe <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Southern Red Oak disease (#0144975)
 
The Question Asker Replied July 03, 2024, 10:39 AM EDT

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