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Galls on Pin Oak Tree (IL)

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From: David K. City: West Frankfort, IL
Sir: My wife and I live in a church parsonage surrounded by Sweet Gum trees and two Pin Oak trees. The Oak trees have growths on the branches and twigs that appear to be globs about the size of walnuts and even attract the squirrel population said they were. I am told that it is a disease that is manifested by wasps. I am told that eventually it will kill the trees and there is nothing that I can do to stop it. I do have pictures but other appears to be no way for me to forward them on this site. Please offer your advice. Thank you!
	Extension Message From: Jay Hayek Extension Specialist, Forestry Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences jhayek@illinois.edu
Hi David: The galls on your pin oak are likely gouty oak gall -- and yes, they are caused by a small parasitic wasp. Will it kill your tree? It's possible, but not likely -- it will take a very, very severe gall infestation to kill your mature pin oak. More from Missouri Botanic Garden on Treatment Options: http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/pests-and-problems/other/galls/gouty-horned-and-other-twig-galls.aspx Best of luck!
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