How is SOD spread?
Research scientists don’t yet totally understand all of the mechanisms of spread. Research has shown that P. ramorum can be spread from plant to plant via wind-driven rain, the movement of soil and water, and by moving infected plant parts – especially infected leaves of foliar plant hosts. Researchers are also studying whether P. ramorum can be spread in the air or if some animals may help disperse spores. For the disease to spread the transported P. ramorum must successfully infect an uninfected host plant. • How can I confirm that my oak tree has SOD? Because other organisms and injuries can produce symptoms very similar to SOD on oaks, homeowners will not be able to diagnose their trees by themselves with absolute certainty. You can check the web site http://www.suddenoakdeath.org for details on host plants and symptoms, but the only way to confirm a P. ramorum infection is through a laboratory test. Many local arborists, foresters, and tree service companies have undergone trainin
