root issue killing my pin oak?

[Lkatrn]

Is it possible for grubs to destroy tree roots? I have a young, (but established 5+ years) pin oak (trunk diameter about 3 inches) that looks to be dying. In mid summer, all of the leaves turned brown; however they are not dry brown, as they get over winter. They still retain the suppleness of summer leaves, just brown, and they have not fallen off the tree.

Now, an adjacent tree, this one an American Yellowwood, planted 10 years ago, and about 25 feet away from the pin oak has one of its major branches that has died over the past few weeks. Could something in the soil be damaging these trees? Neither has any evidence of scale or mold or any infestation on the bark or leaves. We do have soil more on the clay side. Rainfall has been adequate, but no flooding or standing water. neither tree is close to any driveway or sidewalk and no salt damage. Any theories? (Northern Illinois zone 5)

 

[ATH]

can you post pics of the pin oak leaves?

 

[Lkatrn]

The leaves have dried out somewhat now. Still, the color and texture are different than when they turn in late fall. Theyve looked this way since first of august. Just remembered too the leaves all came in noticeably small this year.

 

[Rob Biehl]

You can find useful maintenance and care tips specially for Oak Tree at http://www.prunin.com/oak-tree-maintenance-diseases-care/.

 

[ATH]

That is odd. Not really enough in that picture to point to specific causes.

It really would be worth having somebody out who can see the big picture that we can't see here online. Look for somebody providing a consultation (look for at least an ISA Certified Arborist or check out Association of Consulting Arborists), not an estimate for removal or pruning. The service will cost you, but if you get somebody who knows what they are doing, you will have a much better plan moving forward.