Oak Bullet Gall

[nuthin_special]

We've recently seen infestations of Oak bullet gall on bur oaks explode. Many young trees aren't extending shoots because they have so many galls.

Everywhere i read, sources say treatment isn't necessary since damage is not harmful. Obviously it can be harmful.

Wondering if anyone has had success treating this with a systemic pesticide? Available to me are Imidacloprid, azadirachtin and acephate.

vince

 

[CreTree]

Honey bees cannot handle the imidicloprid. Please be careful.

Here we are dealing with a major infestation of Crypt Gall Wasp. They are really putting a hurt on the Black Oaks. I've been told the same thing, but when a three inch branch breaks six inches from a crotch, I have to disagree with no damage being done.

 

[treegazer]

Dr.Potter, University of Kentucky Entomologist, conducted a study a few years ago with treatments for horned oak gall. The study took place for three years with six replicate groups using Bidrin, and three different rates of Treeage. After three years there was no appreciable difference in the number of new galls on the treated trees vs. the control trees.

Treating Gall wasps is complicated and after assisting with this study I do not believe treatments are effective.

Prune out the most infested branches and do everything you can to reduce stress and increase vigor.

 

[jomoco]

I know that worm castings are extremely popular here locally in SoCal for controlling white fly on a broad range of plants susceptible to infestation.

Since it's totally organic fertilizer and won't burn your plants regardless of how much of it you apply to the plants soil?

It might be worth a try for controlling other insect infestations?

Most nurseries carry it here. About 15 bucks for a 20 lb bag. Keep it cool and don't let it get too hot on the ride home though!

jomoco