Oak Tree Slime Flux: Managing Sap Flow and Hornet Attraction

Diagnosis: Slime Flux (Wetwood)

Foul-smelling sap seepage from trunk/flare roots = bacterial wetwood. Common in oaks. Gas pressure forces sap through cracks/wounds. Attracts insects (hornets, flies) to sugary flux.

Key Facts

• No cure or prevention
• Usually stops on its own (weeks to months)
• Rarely kills tree
• Triggered by heat, drought, stress
• Drain pipes NOT recommended

Management

1. Wash trunk - discourage insects
2. Bleach rinse - 1 pint chlorine bleach per gallon water as final rinse
3. Remove loose bark in flux area - allow drying
4. Spray wasp insecticide - protects dogs/people
5. Maintain tree vigor - water during drought, avoid wounds

Dog Safety

Insecticide spray on flux area keeps hornets away from dog pen. Monitor for new sting incidents.