What to do with an Oak Tree right now

Question: On March 11 a guy started to take the top out of this Oak that is splitting in my backyard.  The process was halted due to a challenge falling a branch.  Now it has open cuts on the top and I am concerned over Oak Wilt as there are other Oak nearby.  The question is:
Do I wait and finish this project in November or get a boom in and finish the job this week?  
Thank you!

responder: Julie Crick  Replied April 12, 2023, 9:44 AM EDT
response: Hi Todd, The open wounds created March 11th have sealed themselves and are no longer an entry point for oak wilt to infect the tree. If you choose to have the work completed now, you may use paint to immediately seal any wounds that are created, including the stump. Or, you may choose to wait until November, when the treat of oak wilt spreading overland is non-existent.  My general rule of thumb is that if you can remove the oak tree in question without damaging neighboring oak trees, then you may do that anytime of year - just seal the stump to be sure.  Feel free to reach out with any questions. Thank you, -Julie

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 17, 2023, 11:30 AM EDT
response: Thank you Julie! Great info and very much appreciated.  The squirrels are using the hole in the tree as a home and I am very much leaning towards leaving the base of the tree a few feet above the split for them.  I put a black mark where I was thinking of leaving the base.  At that point the remaining base will not be a problem.  Do you agree with that thought process?    Also I have a pesky Vine the neighbor planted that is taking over my woodlot.  See picture.  I have treated this with a spray in the past and it worked for about a year.  What is the most effective way to eradicate this so native plants can grow?   Thank you very much for your support!! Go Green     Todd McClelland  | Strategic Accounts - Healthcare T: +800.553.8033.  |  M: +1.616.260.1117  |   View, Download, or Share our Product Catalog here Tennant Company   Creating a cleaner, safer, healthier world.     Robotic Scrubbers    Walk behind            Small Space               Vacuums           Extractors    From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension Sent: Wednesday, April 12, 2023 9:45 AM To: McClelland, Todd <<personal data hidden>> Subject: Re: What to do with an Oak Tree right now (#0094900)     You don't often get email from <personal data hidden>. Learn why this is important       CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

responder: Julie Crick  Replied April 17, 2023, 11:55 AM EDT
response: Hi Todd, I do agree with leaving a tall stump on the oak - then wildlife have a chance to use the small "snag" left behind. Be sure the stump is painted on top and that any wounds are covered to eliminate the chance for oak wilt. We aren't sure it can infect a stump, so paint out of an abundance of caution.  The english ivy is a common invasive vine and can be difficult to remove. Found a bulletin that describes multiple actions that can be taken - both with and without using chemical herbicides. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/english-ivy-control/ As with most invasive species, it will be an ongoing project for a while rather than a one-and-done scenario. And in the end, worth the effort.  Have fun working outside! -Julie

responder: The Question Asker Replied April 17, 2023, 12:30 PM EDT
response: Fantastic!!  Again many thanks!    Todd McClelland  | Strategic Accounts - Healthcare T: +800.553.8033.  |  M: +1.616.260.1117  |   View, Download, or Share our Product Catalog here Tennant Company   Creating a cleaner, safer, healthier world.     Robotic Scrubbers    Walk behind            Small Space               Vacuums           Extractors    From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension Sent: Monday, April 17, 2023 11:55 AM To: McClelland, Todd <<personal data hidden>> Subject: Re: What to do with an Oak Tree right now (#0094900)     You don't often get email from <personal data hidden>. Learn why this is important       CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.