Terminal and top injury adversely affect tree form. Repeated defoliations cause growth loss and mortality. Borers and decay cause defect and degrade amounting to an annual loss of millions of dollars. Indirect losses occur through disruption of sustained forestry practices, regulation of forest types, and altered wildlife habitat. Homeowners may incur the expense of chemical control and possibly the cost of tree removal if mortality occurs.
Nuisances created by numerous insects decrease tourist use and revenue.
It is far better to prevent attack by insects and diseases than to try to fix the damage done. If the situation warrants, use chemical control measures. This booklet will help nurserymen, forest woodland managers, pest control operators, and homeowners to identify and control pest problems on oaks. The major insect and disease pests of oaks in the South are emphasized. Descriptions and illustrations of the pests and their damage are provided to aid in identification.