06/13/2023
Oak wilt has been confirmed in Ontario in the Niagara Falls area. Oak wilt is a vascular disease caused by a fungus which clogs the water transporting vessels and inhibits water transport resulting in the tree wilting and eventually dying.
The fungus is spread by nitidulid beetles commonly called "picnic" beetles. When these beetles feed on the sap of an infected tree, fungal spores attach to the the beetle. When the beetles move to feed on sap from fresh cuts or wounds on a healthy tree, the fungal spores are introduced and new tree is infected. Once a tree is infected the fungus moves through grafted root systems infecting all connected oaks. There is no cure for oak wilt.
What can you do to help prevent the spread?
- Do not prune or wound oaks from April 1 to September 1. The beetle is most active during these times. If an oak is wounded during this period apply tree wound spray or latex-based paint to seal the wound as soon as possible.
- If an oak tree is removed, pull or grind the stump right after removal. If pulling or grinding is not possible, paint the cut part of the stump to seal it off right away.
- Do not move firewood. Firewood or logs could be infected with oak wilt fungus and transportation can spread it. Buy your firewood locally and what you don't use should be left behind.
If you have any concerns with the health of your oak tree(s) contact a certified arborist.
Jesse Kadlecik - Owner/Operator Tri-County Tree Service
ISA Certified Arborist
Oak Wilt Qualified Specialist - Arboriculture Society of Michigan
ISA Tree Risk Assessment Qualification
Ontario Licensed Landscape Exterminator
We have confirmed oak wilt in a residential area in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This is the first confirmed case in Canada.
If you live in the area, check your oak trees regularly for signs of oak wilt, which include dull green, brown or yellow leaves; cracks in the trunk; white, grey or black fungus; and early and sudden leaf drop.
Oak wilt is spread naturally through the root or by beetles carrying fungal spores.
Report all signs of oak wilt to us immediately: https://bit.ly/3J7VSua