Which management practice is recommended for managing oak root fungus?

The recommended management practice for managing oak root fungus is to remove infected roots. This approach is effective because oak root fungus is a soil-borne pathogen that primarily affects the roots of oak trees. By physically removing infected roots, you can limit the spread of the fungus within the soil and help to prevent additional infections from occurring. This method also promotes the overall health of the tree, as it allows for better nutrient and water uptake from unaffected roots.

In addition to this, understanding the biology and ecology of oak root fungus is crucial. The removal of infected roots interrupts the life cycle of the fungus, reducing its prevalence and impact on surrounding plants. Removal should be done carefully to avoid further damage to the tree and surrounding ecosystem.

The other options, such as insecticide application, high nitrogen fertilization, and frequent tilling, do not directly address the root infection caused by the fungus. Insecticides target pests rather than fungal pathogens, high nitrogen can sometimes exacerbate the problem by promoting susceptible growth rather than healthy, resilient plants, and frequent tilling can disturb the soil but may also spread the fungus further, as its spores can become more dispersed. Therefore, the removal of infected roots stands out as the most effective and targeted method for managing oak root fungus.