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Zombie trees appear to be thriving and look healthy, but are actually dying from the inside out. Fall is the best time of year to look for signs of distress after the leaves have fallen off a tree's branches. Photo courtesy Getty Images.
.From now through the end of December is the time of year to inspect your trees for Sudden Oak Death. Photo courtesy Getty Images.

Welcome to our tree column, “Ask your local arborist.” Each month, arborists from the Davey Tree Expert Company will discuss general tree care and planting tips. If you have a tree-related question, email lifestyle@EmbarcaderoMedia or post in the comments section at the end of this column. Arborists may make house calls, when needed, to assess tree questions on your property.

From now through the end of December is the time of year to inspect your trees for Sudden Oak Death. The mold pathogen that causes Sudden Oak Death, phytophthora ramorum, is most active during wet periods and is at the greatest risk of spreading in rainy and muddy conditions. 

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