What is attacking my oak?

Watch Reply
More
Mark unread Print Skip to new
fleursdefouquet Ferndale, AR(Zone 7b) Jun 24, 2006

Until my hard-drive is replaced I'm unable to post photos, so I'll do my best to describe what I've seen. Just noticed for the first time a couple of days ago - a dark spot on the trunk of an oak tree about 4' off the ground. It's approx 10" or so in diameter around small holes bored into the trunk. Insects similar to ants are visible, some appear to have wings, others do not. I think there is another tree nearby that is beginning to be attacked in the same way. Does anyone know what these are and the best way to treat them? Probably need to jump on them as soon as possible to save the trees. Thanks.

Debra

Post #2427463
Quote
StarhillForest Illinois, IL(Zone 5b) Jun 26, 2006

I'm not sure what to suggest without seeing pics. Are the holes in a pattern, and thus made by sapsuckers? The insects might be large, black carpenter ants, which make their homes in dead wood (e.g., hollow trees). The winged ones are swarmers that are leaving to form new colonies. But they do not initiate the wounds, just take advantage of them. Is there someone who could post a photo for you?

Guy S.

Post #2434814
Quote
fleursdefouquet Ferndale, AR(Zone 7b) Jun 26, 2006

Thanks for your post Guy. There are only 2 holes I can see, close to each other, and about 3-4' from the ground. They don't look like woodpecker holes to me. What got my attention was the obvious brown "wound" around the holes, then the insects coming in and out. The brown spot is about 12-18" tall and only half as wide. It really doesn't appear wet, but I haven't touched it. The leaves are green and there doesn't

Not only do I not want to lose a tree, but this particular tree is earmarked to have landscape lighting mounted in it. The electrician ran the wire but hasn't installed any fixtures. Definitely don't want to hang lights in a dying tree.

Will try to get photos posted. My hard-drive is preventing me from uploading but my DH can do it from the office.

Post #2435612
Quote

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
Back to Forum Homepage

More Trees, Shrubs and Conifers Threads

Go to all Trees, Shrubs and Conifers threads
BACK TO TOP