Dutch Elm Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Treewerx in Cambridge, WI, is dedicated to protecting your landscape from devastating diseases like Dutch Elm Disease. Our certified arborists have the expertise and tools to diagnose, treat, and prevent DED. Whether you need preventative care, pruning, or tree removal, we’re here to help you preserve your property’s natural beauty.
What Is Dutch Elm Disease?
Dutch Elm Disease (DED) is a devastating fungal disease caused by Ophiostoma species fungi. It primarily affects elm trees, spreading quickly and often leading to significant tree loss. First identified in Europe, this disease has become widespread in North America, threatening urban landscapes and natural forests.
What Causes Dutch Elm Disease?
Dutch Elm Disease is primarily spread in two ways:
1. Elm Bark Beetles: These beetles carry the fungus from infected trees to healthy ones as they feed and lay eggs under the bark.
2.
Root Grafts: When the roots of neighboring elm trees intertwine, the fungus can travel between them, infecting multiple trees.
How to Identify Dutch Elm Disease: Common Symptoms
Symptoms often start in early summer and progress rapidly. Look for these warning signs:
Wilting Leaves: Leaves on one or more branches wilt, curl, and turn yellow or brown prematurely.
Branch Death: Infected branches die back, often progressing throughout the tree.
Brown Streaks in Wood: If you cut into a branch, you may notice brown streaking in the vascular tissue, a key indicator of the disease.
Is Dutch Elm Disease Fatal?
Yes, Dutch Elm Disease is highly lethal if left untreated. It disrupts the tree’s vascular system, preventing water and nutrients from reaching its leaves. Without intervention, most infected trees will die within one or two seasons.
How is Dutch Elm Disease Treated?
Treating DED requires swift action and professional care. Steps may include:
Fungicide Injections: Infected trees may be treated with systemic fungicides to slow disease progression.
Sanitation: Remove and dispose of infected wood properly to reduce beetle populations.
Sever Root Grafts: Professional arborists can trench between trees to interrupt root connections.
Protect Your Elms With Treewerx
Don’t wait until it’s too late to save your elm trees. Contact Treewerx today to schedule an inspection and learn how we can safeguard your trees against Dutch Elm Disease.