Oak Tatters

Oak Tatters (Click on small image to see larger image)

White oaks or bur oaks may be found with these characteristic symptoms of oak tatters.

Upon initial inspection the leaves look as if they have been shredded or severely fed upon by insects. However, damage occurred to leaf tissue in the buds or at the time of leaf expansion. According to a publication by the USDA Forest Service on oak tatters, one or more of the following factors may be involved:

• Low temperature injury before leaf expansion or during expansion of young succulent leaf tissues.
• Insects feeding or ovipositing in the buds or developing leaves. Insects suggested but not proven include thrips, plant bugs, leafhoppers, and agromyzid flies.
• Herbicides affecting the physiology of the tree, resulting in abnormal development of leaves.

Management of this disease currently focuses on minimizing stress to affected trees. Avoid site changes such as adding fill, severing roots, or compaction. Mulch, water during extended dry conditions, and fertilize as appropriate to help maintain tree vigor. For more information on watering and fertilizing woody plants refer to the following: HO-140, Fertilizing Woody Plants (PDF file).

Plant and Pest Diagnostic Laboratory, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana.