How to spot oak
- Lobed leaves (pointed lobes on red oaks, rounded on white oaks)
- Acorns in fall
- Often the largest, oldest tree on the property
- Pin oaks — common here — hold their lower branches low and keep brown leaves through winter
Oaks are the backbone of the mature canopy around here, and a healthy one is worth real money in shade and property value. They're tough, but the big ones carry serious weight — so when an oak has a problem over your house, it's worth paying attention to.
The main things we watch for on local oaks are bacterial leaf scorch and oak wilt, plus the structural issues that come with any large, aging tree: weak forks, deadwood, and heavy limbs that need support or reduction.
Common problems we see on oak
This is general guidance from three decades of tree work across the Philadelphia area — not a formal diagnosis. When it matters, we'll come look at the actual tree and give you a straight answer, free.
Brennan Tree Service has cared for trees across the Philadelphia area since 1994.
Frequently asked questions
When should oak trees be pruned?
The dormant season (late fall through winter) is best — it avoids the warm months when fresh cuts can attract the beetles that spread oak wilt. We schedule non-emergency oak work for then.