Diseases of the German oak
- mildew
- Wilt
- cancer
- Fire sponge
All of these diseases are caused by harmful fungi. They can be so severe that the tree will die, even if it's a very old specimen. Oaks are also endangered by increasing environmental pollution, so that they cannot cope well with pathogens.
also read
- Grow your own oak tree in the garden
- What diseases can a mountain ash attack?
- This is how an oak grows
The signs of illness vary widely. Watch your oak carefully. As soon as the leaves curl and dry up or abnormalities appear on the trunk, you should investigate the cause of the changes. A white or gray coating indicates powdery mildew. Many oak trees are affected by this in Germany.
Measures to prevent disease
As a preventive measure, you must ensure that the German oak finds ideal conditions. Oak trees always need slightly moist soil. Water the trees not only in hot summers, but also in very dry winters.
Provide sufficient nutrients. Fertilize the oak regularly, especially when it is still young and the roots do not reach deep enough into the soil.
It is beneficial to mulch the soil under a German oak. This prevents the soil from drying out and at the same time provides the tree with nutrients that are released by the decomposition of the mulch material.
Cut oak properly
Branches affected by diseases should be removed immediately. Saw them off cleanly and smoothly. Seal larger wounds with balm to prevent pathogens from entering the tree.
Do not leave fallen leaves from diseased trees lying around, but remove them completely from the garden.
Which pests can occur?
- Oak gall wasps
- Oak curlers
- Oak processionary moth
Pests usually show up on the leaves. Fight an infestation with suitable measures. Most pests do not cause too much damage as long as the oak is otherwise healthy.
An exception is an infestation by the oak processionary moth. As this pest is very irritating to the skin, it should be removed by specialists.
Tips
The German oak is one of the most valuable native tree species. Over 200 types of insects, various types of beetles, butterflies as well as birds, squirrels and other mammals feed on the flowers and fruits.
