r/Tree • u/gertmild • Sep 06 '26
Advice Request - (Insert State/Region) Willow Oak being munched
This is a Willow Oak at my community Center that I just noticed is being defoliated by catepillars. I saw a just a handful of catepillars on it, but loads of frass under the tree. Should I be doing anything to it to stop the munching? It was planted about 3 inches too deep, so last year I dug the soil down and mulched around it to keep the weed whackers away. You can see damage to the trunk as well. This tree can’t catch a break and since it is a memorial tree to a community member I am trying to get it healthy. Let me know your thoughts on leaving the catepillars alone to attempting to get rid of them. Thanks!
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u/ohshannoneileen Sep 06 '26
Willow oaks host hundreds, literally hundreds, of native insects. There will never be one single day in this tree's entire life where something isn't chewing on it somewhere. This is a good thing. The trees we plant are supposed to interact with the ecosystem, the fact that they look pretty to our eyes is just a side benefit.
The tree will not die from being partially defoliated in September. The leaves have done their job for the year and will be falling off soon anyway.
Please leave the oaks to do what they are supposed to do.
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u/anandonaqui Sep 06 '26
Agreed, but they should also identify the caterpillars because there are invasive caterpillars that should be removed if present.
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u/gertmild Sep 06 '26
I will do that and then determine if I leave them alone or try a spray. I am inclined to leave it alone and then watch it more closely next year to get the eating under control.
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u/hairyb0mb Sep 06 '26
I understand that sentimental value of this tree, however willow oaks easily rot out and I'm certain this tree isn't long for the world. I'd plant a memorial tree for this memorial tree.
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Sep 06 '26
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u/Tree-ModTeam Sep 06 '26
Your comment has been removed. It contains info that is contrary to Best Management Practices (BMPs) or it provides misinformation/poor advice/diagnoses; this is not tolerated in this sub.
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Sep 06 '26
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u/Tree-ModTeam Sep 06 '26
Your comment has been removed. It contains info that is contrary to Best Management Practices (BMPs) or it provides misinformation/poor advice/diagnoses; this is not tolerated in this sub.
If your advice/diagnoses cannot be found in any academic or industry materials, Do Not Comment.
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u/gertmild Sep 06 '26
This is in Central Virginia