Oak tree issue

Question: Hello, 

This spot is growing on the trunk of an oak tree. Are you able to identify what it is and how we might be able to help it?

Thank you!

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 24, 2024, 1:13 PM EDT
response: It's hard to identify the cause, since some conditions can overlap in their symptoms, but this appears to be a case of wetwood or slime flux. They are fairly common occurrences, and don't always indicate wood decay or another problem. However, it might not hurt to have the tree evaluated by a certified arborist, who can look more closely at this area and also examine the tree's base and surroundings for sources of stress that might be able to be alleviated. Arborists can't cure or treat every ailment, but they can help to make a diagnosis and evaluate overall tree health.  If you were not already planning on doing so, we do suggest the removal of the English Ivy from its trunk (and the entire area, if possible). This invasive species can harbor some diseases capable of infecting certain trees, but it mainly also just risks long-term tree health when it climbs the trunk into the canopy. While probably not responsible for this symptom, unless the ivy had previously been covering the trunk, it's something to keep in mind to protect the tree's health going forward.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 26, 2024, 9:40 PM EDT
response: Hi Miri,  This is very helpful. Thank you so much!   Do you have any recommendations for a specific arborist in the area? I appreciate the link to search as well but would love any trusted referrals if so.   We are aware of the invasive english ivy and it has been on our list to remove since purchasing our home a few years ago. We would very much welcome any referrals here as well:)  Thanks so much, Dana   On Jun 24, 2024, at 1:13 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:   ﻿

responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 27, 2024, 10:40 AM EDT
response: Hello Dana,  You're welcome!  Extension doesn't collect information about individuals or businesses with regard to arborists or landscapers (their level of training, their fees, their services offered, their customer reviews, etc.), nor do we make business recommendations or referrals, so unfortunately we don't have what you're looking for. Some arborists work for tree-care companies, but some consult independently if that is preferred. If costs are low enough for an evaluation visit, you can always get a second or even third opinion before taking action. This is in part because, although they all have a baseline level of advanced training to become certified, some arborists are more practiced at diagnosing ailments than others, due to varying familiarity with the nuances of tree biology plus plant pathology or insect ID.  Miri

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 27, 2024, 6:45 PM EDT
response: Ok, thank you, I appreciate this. Thank you so much for your all your help and guidance, Miri! You’ve been so helpful. 

Best,
Dana 

> On Jun 27, 2024, at 10:40 AM, Ask Extension <ask> wrote:
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responder: Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 28, 2024, 10:07 AM EDT
response: You're welcome!