Slime Flux (Wetwood) in Oak Trees

Bacterial Ooze at Soil Line

Brownish-green puddle with black bugs at oak base = slime flux. Bacteria ferment wood, pressure forces sap out. Common on oaks, often at flare roots. Triggered by heat/drought stress. No cure, but usually stops on its own.

Management

• Remove loose bark, let dry.
• Wash trunk with bleach solution (1 pint/gallon) to deter insects.
• No wound dressings or drain pipes.
• Maintain tree vigor.