Prune Oak Trees When the Risk is Low
Freeze for your trees or sweat for your shade Prune during the coldest months of the winter or the hottest days of summer, when the risk for oak wilt is low. The best time to prune your oaks is in the winter months of November through January when the sap feeding beetles are least active.
The next best time to prune is the heat of the summer when temperatures rise above 100 degrees; the beetles are less active and oak wilt fungal mats dry up in extreme heat. Use pruning paint even during the lowrisk periods. “Low Risk” does not mean “No Risk”.
Never Prune March thru June Springtime is the highest risk season for new oak wilt infections. March thru June is the period when the three risk factors come together to create perfect conditions for new oak wilt outbreaks: ■ Fungal Mats proliferate in moderate temperatures and high humidity.
■ Sap Feeding Beetles are active and abundant.
■ Oaks are more susceptible to infection in the springtime when the sap is rising. If you need help with Oak Tree questions, please reach out to Hamilton Co. AgriLife, located at 101 E. Henry St, Hamilton TX or call 254-386-3919.
Hamilton County Master Gardeners meet monthly on the 3rd Thursday, 5:15pm, Courthouse annex conference room. If you have a MG question, please call the number above or email hamilton@ag.tamu. edu and reference Ask a Master Gardener in the subject line.