Oak tree distressed - is it too late?

[jjduck]

I have a 24-30" oak tree that was oozing at the base of the tree. This started back in Spring and early Summer. It was so much that it had a small puddle at the base. As I recall the color seemed to be gray at the puddle. Now the oozing has stopped, but I have noticed some voids in the bark (see pics). Bees and butterflies are constantly at the base. Also the bark is extremely soft at certain locations at the base. The leaves are still green and have not fallen. Can this tree be saved or is it too late?

Any help is appreciated. Thx.

 

[Raintree]

Since the discharge is attracting insects it's most likely slime flux. Stop wounding the root flare, mulch tree & maintain soil moisture. It's far from being too late, easy save.

 

[jjduck]

Wounding the root flare? As in don't mow or weed eat too close to the trunk? What kind of watering schedule to maintain soil moisture? Thanks for the help?

 

[Raintree]

Yes, avoid mechanical damage to the trees root collar & trunk area. An inch of water one day a week will suffice. Installing a large mulch bed will keep wounding at bay, help soil fertility & retain moisture. Cheap & easy fix for a stressed tree.

 

[jjduck]

Thanks for the help!

 

[Raintree]

I appreciate you being grateful, it's amazing how many homeowner's get helped in these threads with no thanks or acknowledgement.