Can You Save an Oak Tree with Hypoxylon Canker?

What Is Hypoxylon Canker?

Hypoxylon canker is a fungal disease that threatens stressed and weakened trees across Brenham, Round Top, and the Houston Metro. Awareness, early detection, and proactive care are the best defense, because once Hypoxylon canker is present, the tree's long-term survival is at serious risk.

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How It Attacks

Hypoxylon canker is a fungal disease that affects oak trees. It activates when trees are stressed, causing branch dieback, grayish-white fungal growth, and bark loss. Healthy, well-maintained trees are less likely to be affected.

Symptoms

Signs to watch for:

  • Branches dying back / thinning canopy
  • Bark peeling or falling off
  • Grayish-white or tan fungal mats under bark
  • Sunken cankers on trunk or limbs
  • Sudden decline after drought or storm damage

Where You Might See It

Brenham & Round Top (Rural / Country)

Mature oaks, pastures, and farms are at high risk from drought, soil compaction, and mechanical damage.

Houston Metro / Suburban

Neighborhoods, parks, and business areas face moderate risk from construction, compacted soil, and inconsistent watering.

Prevention

There's no cure once Hypoxylon canker is active, but healthy trees resist infection:

  • Water regularly, especially in dry periods
  • Mulch to retain soil moisture
  • Fertilize annually with balanced nutrients
  • Avoid wounding roots or trunks
  • Prune correctly and avoid drought-stressed pruning

What to Look Out For

If you notice peeling bark, gray fungus, or canopy thinning, have a certified arborist inspect the tree. Early detection helps protect surrounding trees across Houston, Brenham, and Round Top.

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