Young Red Oak Sap Flow: Slime Flux (Bacterial Wetwood)

A young red oak in drought-stricken North Texas suddenly dripped sap from a small hole with white foam. A nearby larger oak had similar issues earlier.

Diagnosis

Slime flux (wetwood)—bacterial fermentation inside trunk produces gas pressure, forcing sap out through cracks/wounds. Two types: "alcoholic" and "acidic" (vinegar smell).

Management

• No cure. Wash trunk to deter insects: 1 pint chlorine bleach per gallon water as final rinse.
• Remove loose/dead bark in affected area; let dry.
• Do NOT apply wound dressings.
• Flow is periodic—may stop spontaneously.
• Fertilize with 10-10-10 at 1 lb/inch trunk diameter (wait for rain/fall in drought) to improve vigor.
• Maintain tree health; minimize wounds.

Context

Common in large oaks during heat/drought stress. Usually cosmetic, not fatal.