Question
Hi David;
  
I live in Northern Illinois. Oak Tree Wilt is becoming quite a problem. I have 2 large oak trees that have died from the disease. I have another oak tree that was showing signs of the wilt last year. It is a lovely  tree in a special area in my yard. It is isolated from other oak trees in the area and seems to be improving, but with several limbs completely dead. Is it possible that it could survive with special care etc. ? Any ideas or suggestions ? Thanks for the help.

Bill  

Answer
If it is oak wilt, there is no real cure or treatment.  The only thing you can do is try to keep the tree as healthy as possible.  Fertilize the tree with a tree fertilizer and keep watered during periods of dry weather.  You can cut out any dead branches as they occur.  You may try to drench the soil around the tree with one of the Bayer Advanced Tree and Shrub Insecticides if you can find one.  These products are systemic and are taken up by the roots and distributed in the tree.  The insecticide product will keep bugs off the tree, which will help eleviate a stress. Sorry I have no silver bullet for this one.  Good Luck.