Oak trees (Quercus sp.) represent increasingly important components of the Michigan Landscape, whether the landscape is urban or is natural woodlands/forests. The loss of important species of trees (examples: Ash, Elm, and Chestnut), coupled with seemingly almost daily new introductions of pests and diseases (examples: Hemlock Wooly Adelgid, Beech Leaf Disease, Pear Trellis Rust), makes it vitally important that we learn to distinguish the myriad of Oak maladies so that we can properly manage and preserve this important genus of tree.

Some of the oak afflictions that may mimic one another or may be misdiagnosed include Anthracnose, Heat and Drought Stress, Cicada Damage, Physiological and Environmental Scorch, various Borers, Oak Wilt, and cultural problems such as herbicide misapplication and excess soil moisture that may lead to Phytophthora collar rot; both problems may result in tree death and be confused with Oak Wilt and other issues.