How to Control Mistletoe in Oak Trees

Mistletoe is a parasite on the tree.

Mistletoe might look interesting in your oak trees, and it might be a popular decoration for the holidays, but it is detrimental to your tree's health. The plant is a parasite that lives off of the tree, taking needed nutrients away. It is difficult, if not impossible, to remove mistletoe once it has taken root, but you can control the plant.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Mistletoe growth regulator
• Garden sprayer
• Tree trimmer

Instructions

1. Wait until spring to take care of mistletoe in your oak trees. The temperature needs to be at least 65 degrees.

2. Mix up a growth regulator made for mistletoe. Follow directions for mixing. Pour it into a garden sprayer.

3. Climb the ladder to get near the mistletoe and spray it. Try not to spray the tree, just the parasitic plant.

4. Wait for five days, and then apply a second coat. Wait three weeks for the plant to completely die.

5. Reapply the growth regulator every few years to keep the mistletoe under control.

6. Cut out limbs if the mistletoe becomes too much or you get tired of reapplying the formula. Cut limbs with a tree trimmer. Make the first cut from the bottom to keep the branch from tearing off. Once you have cut halfway through it, move the trimmer to the top of the branch and cut downward.

Tips & Warnings

• Take care while on the ladder. It is best if you have someone with you to hold it while you climb up and down.

References

• Monterey Lawn and Garden: Mistletoe
• MD Vaden: Mistletoe Control & Removal