When to prune oaks in the Hill Country

Oak wilt is a fungus that kills live oaks and red oaks, and it spreads fastest in spring. Fresh pruning cuts attract the beetles that carry it.

The safe window

Prune oaks in the hottest part of summer or the coldest part of winter, roughly July through January. Avoid February through June.

If you must cut in spring

Storm damage can't wait. Paint every cut and wound with pruning paint right away, within minutes, to keep beetles away.

Signs to watch for

• Leaves with yellow or brown veins on live oaks
• Sudden leaf drop in late spring or summer
• Several oaks in a row declining at once

If you see these, call for a look before you prune nearby trees.