Question
QUESTION: I have a 7 year old beautiful oak tree in my front yard. The leaves have just turned brown and leathery and it appears to be dying. Is there any way I can treat the treee so it will not die?

ANSWER: Hi Cindy:

Did it leaf out and look good last spring? Here are a couple of things to check out.  Take a close look at the trunk and main stem for any evidence of bark damage/injury where the bark may have been removed- like a wound were the bark has splits or open areas on it.  Take a look at the roots, has there been type of digging- like construction where the roots might be out to the drip line.

Take a look at these above things first. I am assuming the leaves that turned brown are the new leaves that came out this spring- correct.  If so, has there been a sudden drop in temperature (freezing) that may have damaged the tender leaves?

If none of these things fits, try scratching the bark off with your fingernail on a few of the smaller twigs that you can reach standing on the ground. If it is green beneath, the leaf problem may be a temporary stress and the you may get another flush of leaves when favorable environmental conditions return.

If necessary, you can send me a photo of these brown leaves on the tree.

Regards
Steve

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your quick response. I checked the leaves/branches last night and there are new green buds all over the tree. We had a freeze a couple of months ago [I live in Florida] but the tree did not appear to be affected then but is definately is now. I think it was the freeze since I have new buds. I think it will be ok. Thank you so much.

Answer
Cindy:
New buds over the tree are a good sign. Thanks for letting me know.  Be sure to keep the lawnmower and string trimmers away from the base of the tree- these things create wounds that can lead to diseases. Be sure to also water, especially during the dry/windy days of summer.

Good to hear from you.
Steve