Hollow White Oaks with Carpenter Ants: Fertilize, Don't Fell

One huge white oak fell—rotten roots, hollow trunk, carpenter ants. Remaining trees similar but green canopies = alive. Heartwood decay ≠ tree death. Living sapwood under bark adds strength yearly.

Ants Are Secondary

Carpenter ants nest in decayed wood—they don't kill trees. Control if they invade structures: Terro outdoor liquid baits or dust insecticide (Sevin) into nest cavities.

Preserve the Giants

• Fertilize annually: 10-10-10 at 1 lb/inch trunk diameter before rain.
• Do not fill cavities or paint wounds.
• Remove only if large limbs start breaking hollow.

These oaks can stand decades more.