Growth

[daniel hormann]

I have a problem with the lower branches on an oak tree dying. There are
places towards the end of the branches some the size of golf balls. These
pods go half way up the tree . The tree has about a 14 inch trunk .What can
I do to help this problem.

 

[treeclimber165]

I like how you were able to post a picture, NEAT! The extent of my knowledge is that those lumps are formed by a type of wasp that lays eggs in the small twigs. The tree reacts by forming 'scabs' around the eggs, which provides food for the larvae when they hatch. I see these all the time, never thought they were a major problem to an otherwise healthy tree. Lets see what John and Darin have to say.

 

[Deere John]

Tree is right. The gall is most likely caused by cynipid wasps, in particular Callirhytis cornigera. My book says they can indeed kill branches (as they kill the cambium) and the control is to prune the gall and kill the waspe larvee before they emerge.

 

[Darin]

I agree with you all. I added this pic for him. I will add a post in support and announcements so everyone knows how to post pics.
Darin