Humans find stress relief in the presence of a mighty oak tree.
But “trees can be stressed out,” and humans can help them, certified arborist Matt Duffy said.
“Plant more oak trees. We need them. A lot of them are dying off,” Duffy said at a Mineral Point Historical Society lyceum Sunday afternoon at the Odd Fellows lodge.
The reasons for increased mortality rates are complex but include drought and disease.
“One hundred-plus-year-old trees are seeing the greatest impact,” Duffy said. “Trees, just like us when we age, become more susceptible” to health problems.
Among the pests are spongy moths, which cause defoliation, jumping worms and two-lined Chestnut borer.
Oak wilt, a non-native fungal disease that chokes off a tree’s water absorption, is fatal. “I’ve seen a tree drop half its leaves in two days,” Duffy said.
Oaks support thousands of species of native butterflies, moths and beetles, and provide food for birds, deer and squirrels. They provide shade, beauty and high-quality lumber.
But the number of oak trees is declining.
“I really can’t stress enough climate change. We know what’s happening,” he said. Rising temperatures and low snow totals “do not bode well for our oak trees.” Depending on the species and the site, oak trees can live 200 years, he said.
To help oaks live long lives, monitor them seasonally or yearly. “Don’t wait to have your trees inspected” if you spot something, Duffy said.
Take photos to document issues and collect samples to be tested so diagnosis can determine the correct treatment.
Mulch, improve soil conditions, water during drought and don’t prune during the growing season, he advised.