The year 2021 has been tough on a lot of species, and Arkansas' oaks are no exception, with leaves that have turned brown, look scorched and seemed to flag overnight.
"Over the past several weeks we have seen an increase in calls from our agents, landowners, and foresters regarding the rapid browning of oak trees, particularly post oak," said Kyle Cunningham, extension and research forester for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture.
Cunningham said there were concerns that the rapid decline might be from the fatal oak disease "oak wilt," a fungal infection that's a serious threat to Arkansas forests.
"There is a phenomenon referred to as 'oak decline.' Often, the damage appears sudden but actually has been taking place for a period of time," he said.
"However, our forest health experts are finding that the culprit could be the erratic weather patterns we have experienced this year and in recent years that cause cumulative effects on oak species," he said.
Underlying causes may include various leaf and branch diseases and insects.
Oak wilt has been found in northern Arkansas and remains a significant concern for all landowners, Cunningham said.
"The oak decline event we seem to be experiencing this year will likely be temporary. Our oak forests are rugged and resilient, and capable of defending against injury when properly managed," Cunningham said.
Learn more about overnight flagging in oaks. Find forest health resource information from the Cooperative Extension Service at https://www.uaex.edu/environment-nature/forestry/health/.
To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact a local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow the agency on Twitter and Instagram at @AR_Extension.