All of us here at Hildebrandt Tree Tech hope you are enjoying your summer thus far. The higher-than-normal rain we have experienced and reasonably comfortable summer temperatures have truly been a blessing this year. Unfortunately though, these conditions are also ideal for one of our most devastating oak tree diseases: Oak Wilt. Oak Wilt disease is a nasty little fungus that thrives during years in which we see increased rain and humidity combined with warm summer temperatures. We understand that your oak trees are more than just part of your landscape—they are an essential part of your property’s beauty and value. Neighborhoods in Lubbock such as Lakeridge, Rush, Papalote, Whisperwood, Brentwood and others have seen significantly increased occurrences of Oak Wilt this year.
The Problem: Oak Wilt is a Deadly Threat to Your Trees
Oak Wilt is a devastating fungal disease that spreads rapidly, with the potential to kill oak trees in a matter of weeks. Once a tree is infected, the disease moves through the vascular system, blocking water and nutrient flow. The consequences are severe: leaves wilt and fall prematurely, ultimately leading to the tree’s death in the majority of infected trees.
The Cost of Inaction: Losing Your Trees and Property Value
Imagine your once-lush, green oaks turning into barren, lifeless stumps. Not only would this affect the aesthetic appeal of your property, but it could also significantly reduce its value. Replacing mature oak trees is costly and time-consuming.
The Solution: Preventative Treatments for Oak Wilt
Preventative treatments are the most effective way to protect your oak trees from this deadly disease. By taking action now, you can save your trees and avoid the higher cost associated with treating an infected tree. The old adage that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure is very true when dealing with Oak Wilt.
The Benefits of Preventative Treatments:
- Proactive Protection: Preventative treatments have a high success rate in stopping Oak Wilt before it starts, ensuring your trees remain healthy and vibrant.
- Cost-Effective: Preventing Oak Wilt is far less expensive than treating infected trees and replacing dead ones.
- Long-Term Health: Regular preventative care promotes the overall health and longevity of your oak trees.
- Peace of Mind: Enjoy the beauty of your oak trees without the constant worry of disease.
The Alternative: Treating Infected Trees
While there are treatments available for infected trees, they are often less effective and more expensive. Treating an infected tree involves:
- Extensive pruning of dead and diseased branches.
- Treatment which may not guarantee recovery. Generally speaking, treatment of an infected tree will only preserve, in a best-case scenario, the remaining canopy of your tree(s) at the time of treatment.
- Increased labor costs and time commitment.
- Potential loss of the tree despite treatment efforts.
Schedule Your Preventative Treatment Today
If you live in one of the Lubbock neighborhoods that are seeing increased Oak Wilt infections this year, then please don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Hildebrandt Tree Tech today so we can help guide you through the best options to protect your oak trees from Oak Wilt now. Our team of Oak Wilt Qualified ISA Certified Arborists use the latest techniques and treatments to ensure your trees have the best opportunity to remain healthy and disease-free.
Contact us at 806-441-7722 or visit our website to book your appointment. Let’s work together to keep your oak trees thriving for years to come.
