My tree has been in the ground 6 years. It is 14 feet tall and this year when the leaves came out they were much smaller than normal. A hose was left on accidentally for about 18 hours when I was giving it a deep soaking. (Timer broke) Within a day the leaves all turned brown and the limbs were dead. Could it really be over watering? I have another Nuttall planted at the same time which is a little larger and it is normal and beautiful! The soil is clay, and there is good drainage because of the sloped fenceline behind the tree. I am wanting to replant for the shade for my kennel.

Answer #1 · Brooks Wilson's Answer · Hi Suzzane,

Sounds like either Carpenter Ant infestation or Borers...or both.

You may want to call a local tree service to check the tree. If it's Borers and or Carpenter Ants you will need to have them treated and killed asap before they spread to other trees.

Over watering one time should not cause this kind of problem with your tree.

Hope this helps you.

Brooks Wilson)

Answer #2 · Brent Wilson's Answer · I agree with Brooks and don't think that a single over watering would cause this problem. In it's native region, Nuttalli oak grows in lowland areas...but not permanent swamps. This means it likes moist soil, but it will tolerate periods of drought.To cause damage to the roots the soil would have to stay consistently wet or boggy or under standing water for a period of time.

If not some kind of borers, the oak tree could have some kind of disease. If leaves were smaller and are turning brown all over the tree, this would make me think there's a problem with the soil or the roots or a canker down low on the trunk. If it's a canker or borers there should be some kind of evidence, such as sores or holes on the trunk or the branches.

Nuttalli likes an acid soil with a pH of between 4.5 to 5.5. If the soil is too alkaline this might have caused or contributed to the problem. Soil sulfur and/or chelated iron can be applied to increase the acidity.

Too much digging around the root system of the tree can cause problems...distorted and smaller leaves. Spreading a weed & feed type lawn fertilizer around the roots can cause major problems and death of the tree as well.

You might consider having a local arborist come by to take a look at and diagnose the problem with the tree.)

Answer #3 · Suzanne Bell's Answer · No sign of anything. Probably Weed and Feed in the shallow roots after the flood of water. ;( What can I do to remedy the situation to be able to plant another tree?)