There appears to be some sort of cocoon hanging from an oak tree that we recently planted (about two months ago). It is round and about as big as a tennis ball. I don't know what it might be and don't want to take it off if it is something beneficial. Does anyone have any ideas about this?

Thank you.

Lisa Buick
Grapevine, Texas[/img]

My husband found a website that says this may be a oak apple gall containing wasp larvae. Is it something we can just leave on the tree or should we cut it off. Thank you.

Lisa Buick
Grapevine, Texas

Go to the main page of this website and click on Library, then click on G for gall

Dear Sandi, thanks very much - this is very helpful. However, I have one other question. If we decide to take the gall off the tree (probably won't, but just curious), can we leave it somewhere and the wasps won't die, or does cutting it down cause them loss of nutrients? I don't want to hurt them but it is a bit unsightly. Thank you.

Lisa B.

I don not know the answer to that question.