Recent Nature Corner
From the Desk of Joe Cheben
INATURE CORNER – “Annual Texas Live Oak Leaf Drop” by Joe Cheben – references = Texas A&M Agrilife Extension – Texas Plant Clinic – Texas Plant Diagnostic Lab – March 30, 2011
Spring in the Hill Country is not too far away. For those of you who are new to this location, you will soon see an interesting phenomenon take place. In March through early May of every year, arborists get calls for help with “dying” oak trees. The yellowing and scorched leaves often result in defoliation (dropping of leaves). Many believe that this is a result of some disease. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on how you see it) this is a natural occurrence in Texas live oaks. These trees stay green throughout the winter and will begin to shed their leaves when the weather starts to get warm.
The shedding of leaves is in preparation for new leaves. Usually new leaves will appear shortly after the old leaves are shed. New leaves may also be appearing while old leaves are dropping. Sometimes, this explanation is not sufficient to property owners who respond with “but my other live oak still looks okay”.
So why is there a difference? The best explanation is that each tree can be looked upon as an individual, with specific characteristics. Those trees may be different genetically, making one shed and produce new leaves quicker than another. It is also possible that there are environmental and/or physical factors that influence a particular plant to shed quicker. Nevertheless, this leaf drop phenomenon is one that we live with in Texas. It is NOT caused by a disease. It is part of the natural life cycle of the tree.
So, no need to panic. Just observe and enjoy the wonders of nature.
Here’s a brief but good article.