Oak Root Fungus  (Armillaria mellea)

At the present time some 36 distinct biological species of the genus Armillaria have been isolated and identified by plant patheologist. The genus is world wide in distribution and practically all woody plant groups are suseptible to one or several of the most common species of oak root fungus.

Symptoms of Oak Root Fungus

Generally speaking, trees which are infected with oak root fungus (Armillaria) decline slowly over a period of years, in some cases probably decades. Trees replanted in the same location can be re-infected and girdled in as little as two years from oak root fungus. The list of symtoms or conditions, some or most of which may be found associated with Armillaria infection, are not individually specific to Armillaria- they may be found on most unhealthy  and stressed trees. So by themselves they are not definative, but on any dead, dying tree or stressed plant, they should sound an alarm and certainly justify a thorough examination by one of our tree doctors.

Advance Foliage Thinning and branch Die Back 

Following are some of the symtoms that might indicate Armillaria infection: reduced or stunted growth, smaller leaf size, chlorotic foliage, terminal  tip or crown die back, sudden wilting or collapse, Loosening or separation of bark from trunk, Obvious overwatering and planting of moisture loving plants under the drip line.

 White Mycelial fans from an Armillaria infected Coast Live Oak 

The Coast Live Oak-(Quercus agrifolia) is a spectacular heritage tree that is protected in many cities in Southern California. It can tolerate heavy clay soil, but in urban setting it perfers well drained soil due to urban irrigation systems. Coast Live Oak trees are fast growing when young then slow down with age. They are long lived trees that can live over 300 years old. 35-45ft in height and with a spread that can go to 80ft.  Coast Live Oaks are an exelent shade tree but do require space. When grown in an open setting, Quercus agrifolia's limbs will grow laterally all the way the the ground. In urban setting the canopies are usually lifted up to avoid objects like walls, pedestrians, and buildings.

Coast Live Oak Propagation 

Coast Live Oaks drop their acorns in the fall and are viable when they are brown and shiny. This is the best time to plant the acorns in a one gallon can. The acorn needs to only be barried half way to prevent rotting. This is a great project for children. Then place the containers in a semi shaded area and watch them grow. Once the trees are a couple of feet high it can be moved into full sun.

Coast Live Oak Acorns

Pruning Coast Live Oaks

Coast Live Oak trees need little pruning in naural setting, but in urban setting the will need to be pruned. They should never be heavily pruned and when pruning is needed it should be done in the summer time. Fall pruning is not recomended.

Coast Live Oak Foliage

Mitchell Pest Control uses the safest and most effective insecticides and fungicides. People can re-enter area within a few hours after application or until the application area is dry. We request that you keep any pets inside during this time. Windows should be closed and the job site should be free of workers outside. Applications can be scheduled to avoid any spraying the day your gardener is working. 

Spraying for Sycamore Scale 

Spraying a Ficus Hedge for Cuban Laurel Thrips