DiseaseHigh Severity

Verticicladiella (Oak Decline Complex)

Verticicladiella sp.

A complex of fungi that causes oak decline throughout the continental United States. Predisposed by drought stress, root damage from construction or transplanting, and soil compaction. Can kill trees in 2-3 months or cause gradual death over 3-8 years.

Oak tree showing symptoms of decline complex with crown thinning

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Initial discoloration of leaf margins
Interveinal yellowing progressing to total leaf yellowing
Slow to quick wilting and branch dieback
Symptoms usually evident first in upper crown
Leaves may or may not fall prematurely
Thinning of individual branches then entire crown
Vascular discoloration red-brown to black-blue in twigs and root crown

Potential Damage

Progressive crown thinning and dieback
Vascular system disruption
Root crown decay and instability
Rapid tree mortality in severe cases
Gradual decline over multiple years
Secondary pest and pathogen invasion

Lifecycle

Lethal infection generally through roots from soilborne phaseSome fungi may establish as twig-canker incitersFalling branches and twigs introduce fungus to root areaComplex interactions between multiple fungal speciesPredisposed by drought and mechanical root damage

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Maintain adequate soil moisture during drought

2

Avoid root damage from construction activities

3

Improve soil compaction around affected trees

4

Fungicide treatments for high-value trees

5

Remove and destroy infected material

6

Plant resistant oak species in problem areas

Recommended Mauget Products

Arborfos

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against verticicladiella (oak decline complex).

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Fungisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against verticicladiella (oak decline complex).

View Product Details

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