What Can Be Done?

There is no cure for Oak Wilt. Two fungicides have been developed that will control the disease if detected in the early stages. (Contact the Vegetation Management Section staff at (512) 416-3093 for information.)
Therefore, the following preventive measures offer the only means of control:
  • Perform necessary pruning and cutting of healthy trees during the winter months of January and February when Sap Beetles are least active.
  • Treat wounds with pruning paint in Oak Wilt infected counties to discourage insects, especially during warm weather.
  • Sterilize all pruning tools in either LysolTM spray or a 70 percent rubbing alcohol solution. The use of chlorine bleach solutions to sterilize pruning tools is discouraged due to premature oxidation or rusting of steel parts.
  • Destroy the tree cuttings by burning or burying the wood.
Once Oak Wilt has been confirmed, steps can be taken to prevent spread, including:
  • trenching around and removal of infected trees
  • injection of approved fungicide.
    Be sure to get positive identification of the Oak Wilt fungus before taking these drastic actions.
    Hose harness, injectors and pressurized application tank for Alamo fungicide. (click in image to see full-size image)
    Figure 4-13. Hose harness, injectors and pressurized application tank for Alamo fungicide.
    alt="Pressurized injectors of Mauget Tebuject fungicide for Oak Wilt suppression. (click in image to see full-size image)"
    Figure 4-14. Pressurized injectors of Mauget Tebuject fungicide for Oak Wilt suppression.
    Oak wilt infested trees dying in a circular pattern. (click in image to see full-size image)
    Figure 4-15. Oak wilt infested trees dying in a circular pattern.
    Oak Wilt infested trees dying. (click in image to see full-size image)
    Figure 4-16. Oak Wilt infested trees dying.