Question
I have an oak tree which I am pretty sure has slime flux disease. I have heard that there is no treatment for it; however, I have also heard that washing the wound with 1 pint bleach to 1 gallon water can help. Will this hurt the tree? It is one of our favorite trees and we hate to lose it. Thank you for your help!

Answer
Wahing the wound with bleach will not hurt the tree.  I might use 1 cup in a gallon instead of one pint.  The problem is that the bacteria are in the heartwood and it is unlikely that you will kill it 3-4 feet down in the trunk.  However, I would give it a try.  I have also heard of cauterizing the wound with a propane torch, but I dont think this works very well either.  The tree may live for years with this condition.  Good Luck.