I have a young pin oak ( 4" dbh, 20' height) that appears healthy except that the leaves are very yellow. The tree is growing on the south shore of Lake Ontario in close proximity of other trees which appear to be very healthy (Sugar Maple,Red Oak,Black Cherry,Mountain Ash,Austrian Pine and some smaller hybrid oaks). They all have ample space and sunlight with no signs of disease or insects. Whats wrong with my Pin Oak?

Thanks for any help.

Reply to post by herb linderman, on July 11, 2000 at 08:15:19:

Pin oaks are notoriously sensitive to iron deficiency. This is often the case on soils with a high pH, or soil that is not acid enough. The other trees might tolerate the conditions better, or the pin oak may be in a place with a localized problem.

First step is a complete soil analysis, including micronutrients. Specifically you need to know pH, iron availablity, buffer pH, organic matter, etc. Applying treatments without know where you are starting from can cause more problems. You might also want to consider tissue analysis, also. Check with several local arborists to find a good lab for the testing. You can check with Cooperative Extension, too, but I'm not sure if Cornell does complete nutrient testing through Extension.

The American Society of Consulting Arborists can recommend highly qualified arborists and consultants in your area. Their web site and database is at

http://www.asca-consultants.org

or contact the main office at

American Society of Consulting Arborists
15245 Shady Grove Road
Suite 130
Rockville, MD 20850
(301) 947-0483

The International Society of Arboriculture maintains a current list of ISA Certified Arborists. The searchable list can be accessed at the ISA Web site, at:
http://www.isa-arbor.com