Posted by & filed under Dutch Elm Disease

During the first half of the 20th century, many of the elms in North America and Europe were stunted or killed by Dutch Elm Disease. Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is a serious micro-fungal infection which was first reported in the United States in the late 1920s. The fungus is carried tree to tree by the elm bark beetle, or it spreads through grafted roots. DED continues to devastate elm trees throughout the country.

One of the first signs of infection is the yellowing and withering of leaves on its uppermost branches during summer. Infected branches appear as though they were preparing to shed their leaves for the autumn. This symptom is caused by the immune system of the tree reacting to the infection and trying to block its further spread by plugging up its own vital water and nutrient transport tissues. To prevent Dutch Elm Disease from spreading and devastating the elm population, early detection and intervention is crucial.

Removal of sick and dead trees as well as preventative injections for healthy trees are effective ways to limit the impact of DED. The disease is difficult to manage, because the micro-fungus spores spread very easily.

Emerald Tree Care, LLC knows how to protect trees from DED. Call today to sign up for a free inspection.