Identification and control of oak wilt in Texas urban forests

Abstract

Oak wilt, caused by Ceratocystis fagacearum, annually causes losses of epidemic proportions in towns and cities throughout central Texas. Live oaks (Quercus fusiformis and Q. virginiana) are the most seriously affected Quercus spp. Oak wilt epidemiology has been studied to develop the key elements of a comprehensive, integrated oak wilt management program. The program relies on disruption of root connections, intravascular injection with propiconazole, proper pruning and wound treatments, and various sanitation practices. A five-step protocol is recommended to distinguish oak wilt in live oak from other diseases in Texas and facilitate disease control. Cooperation among federal, state, and local agencies working with commercial arborists has resulted in significantly controlling the disease. -from Author