Live Oak Foaming at Base: Wetwood (Slime Flux) or Borers

Live oaks in north central Texas emit air bubbles and foam at base after rains during hot, dry summer.

Two Possible Causes

1. Wetwood / Slime Flux

• Internal bacterial infection creates gas pressure, forcing sap out.
• Sap is dark, frothy, foul-smelling; kills grass below.
• No cure; avoid stress, proper pruning, fertilization may help.

2. Borer Infestation

• Check for small holes at sap origin.
• Contact local agriculture agency for borer treatments.

Wetwood rarely kills trees; many survive decades with it.