Mighty no more.
October’s not getting out of here without one last refrain. In dramatic contrast to the hysterical shades of vermillion, gold, and orange we've been listening to so far, this one’s more sedate - the bottom note of a stunning fall chord.
This red oak leaf - and many others on the tree - has decided to go directly from green to brown. Although it’s named for the color of its wood, the red oaks usually go all brilliant red before calling it quits for the season.
Unfortunately, the University of Minnesota Extension services informed me this is not a sign of unique fall coloration, but of oak wilt - a fatal disease caused by a non-native invasive fungus. Well, darn... I started the story so I have to finish it.
"To everything turn, turn, turn, There is a season turn, turn, turn, And a time to every purpose under Heaven.”
Peet Seeger for The Byrds*
Oak wilt spreads above ground by insects and below ground through the root systems. It progresses quickly and this tree will likely die shortly after leafing out next spring. Currently the disease covers about one third of the area where most Minnesota oaks grow. The U of M forester assured me that the DNR has its eyes on the Luce Line Trail and is taking active management steps to control it.
The rules of nature decree that, even for the mighty oak tree, the King of all tress, there is a time. So please, turn to an oak tree if you know one and give it a hug.
*Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
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