White Oak with Foam at Base: Bacterial Wetwood (Slime Flux)

White Foam Seeping from White Oak Base? Slime Flux

A large white oak with a small basal hole oozing white foam that reappears after hosing off has bacterial wetwood (slime flux). Common in oak, elm, maple. Fermentation in heartwood creates pressure, forcing foam out.

Key Facts

• Foam is colorless to tan, darkens in air.
• Attracts insects (nats, flies).
• May stunt leaves if chronic.
• Grass killed where foam runs.

Management

• No cure. Self-limiting; stops in weeks to months.
• Do not drill or treat. Worsens injury.
• Remove loose bark in area; let dry.
• Flush with dilute bleach (1:9) to reduce odor/insects.
• Maintain tree vigor: water in drought, mulch, avoid wounds.

The tree is not in immediate danger. Wetwood is a chronic condition, not a killer.