Oak wilt can be spread from tree to tree by two different means.

1. Third Party Transmission (Insects and tree wounds)

When third party transmission occurs, from whatever source, a tree becomes infected. The source can be an insect that is attracted to a fresh wound or even a saw that has been recently used on another infected tree.

2. Root Transmission

Once a tree has been infected by Oak wilt the disease travels through the root system and spreads from tree to tree through its “community” root system.

The only way to stop further transmission is by severing the roots system. The first step is to create a barrier surrounding the infected trees. Once all of the infected trees are located it is important to mark the trench at least 100’ from the last infected tree in order to make sure the trench fully contains the infected roots. Once the trench perimeter is established a trench of at least 48” needs to be cut through the roots. The State of Texas only recommends 48” Oak Rx prefers to trench at 60”. After the trench is made, all grafted roots are severed, making tree to tree transmission impossible via the root system.