Identifying and Managing Oak Tree Diseases: Sudden Oak Death vs. Slime Flux

When a homeowner noticed black lesions on a neighbor's water oaks, concern arose about the "Godzilla fungus" — Sudden Oak Death (SOD) — reported in the news. However, SOD has not been detected in Georgia. The symptoms described, including oozing cankers, are more characteristic of a common bacterial infection called slime flux.

What Is Slime Flux?

Slime flux, also known as wetwood, is a bacterial infection that occurs beneath the cambium layer of the trunk. The bacteria ferment sap, causing a foul-smelling, foamy ooze to seep from the bark. The odor resembles vinegar, and the sweet liquid often attracts large numbers of insects.

Management Strategies

There is no cure for slime flux, but you can support the tree's natural defenses:

• Water deeply during summer heat: Apply two gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter (measured at 4.5 feet above ground) for each day between waterings.
• Mulch extensively: Spread mulch under the entire branch spread to keep soil cool and uncompacted.

These practices help the tree compartmentalize the infection and maintain vigor.