In the South Texas area, the timing will be slightly earlier, but in the Panhandle the timing would be later. When possible prune trees between December 1 and February 1, or between July 1 and October 1. Protecting Pruning Cuts or Wounds Trees near oak wilt centers that are wounded or that must be pruned during the most active insect and fungal mat season, should be protected with a wound paint. These materials provide a protective layer between the fresh cut and the sap feeding beetles. Apply the paint in a thin layer immediately after wounding.
Most products have either an asphalt or latex base.
Wound paints should always be used when pruning trees in the immediate vicintiy of an oak wilt center. Trees within 3 miles of an oak wilt center should be painted during critical periods of insect and fungus activity. Paint is not required for trees in areas free of the oak wilt fungus. Firewood Firewood cut from tree species that form oak wilt mats can spread the fungus. If questions arise about where the trees were cut for wood or the species of tree cut, it is best to cover the wood pile with clear plastic.