Michigan knowing we've had 4 consecutive warm weathe - Ask Extension
Will there be any harm to trimming Oak trees in Southfield, MI on March 30th or 31st if there have been 4 days of consecutive warm weather?
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Michigan knowing we've had 4 consecutive warm weathe #927043
Asked March 30, 2026, 10:43 AM EDT
Will there be any harm to trimming Oak trees in Southfield, MI on March 30th or 31st if there have been 4 days of consecutive warm weather?
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
Yes, if it is warm you will want to paint each pruned cut with latex house paint. You must do this within 3-5 minutes of making the cut, since the beetles that carry the disease can sense the fresh sap in minutes.
If the tempertures drop below 40 and stay there, this would slow down the beetles from moving about.
Safest bet is to be prepared to paint the cuts.
Yes, if it is warm you will want to paint each pruned cut with latex house paint. You must do this within 3-5 minutes of making the cut, since the beetles that carry the disease can sense the fresh sap in minutes.
If the tempertures drop below 40 and stay there, this would slow down the beetles from moving about.
Safest bet is to be prepared to paint the cuts.
Hi Laura,
Thank You so much for your quick response and advice, it is greatly appreciated!
Regards,
Denise
On Monday, March 30, 2026 at 10:55:13 AM EDT, Ask Extension wrote:
