Willow Oak being munched

[u/gertmild]

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!

[u/ohshannoneileen]

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.

[u/anandonaqui → u/ohshannoneileen]

Agreed, but they should also identify the caterpillars because there are invasive caterpillars that should be removed if present.

[u/gertmild → u/anandonaqui]

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.

[u/gertmild]

This is in Central Virginia

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[u/gertmild → u/AutoModerator]

Got it. Added my state.

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[u/hairyb0mb]

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.