Dutch elm disease is another tree disease that is rather common in the Kansas City area. This particular tree disease was first discovered in the U.S. in 1930 in Ohio, according to North Dakota State University (NDSU). It’s a disease caused by a fungus called Ophiostoma ulmi that is transmitted via two species of bark beetle or by root grafting. The American elm has shown to be the most seriously affected elm by Dutch elm disease, while the Siberian elm is most tolerant.
NDSU says that the “observable” symptoms of Dutch elm disease, as well as the progression of the disease, vary between those that contract the disease from bark beetles and those infected by root grafts. A tree infected by a beetle will show wilting first, along with the curling and yellowing of leaves on at least one branch, but possibly more, in the upper portion of the tree. Large trees tend to show the progression of symptoms over a period of one or more years.
Trees infected through root grafts wilt more quickly than those that are infected through bark beetles, and they die very quickly, too. Usually, this happens in the spring, shortly after the trees leafed out and the symptoms progress from the base of the tree upward.
While we don’t have a treatment available for Dutch elm disease, Cartwright Tree Care does offer a preventative treatment for this disease. Preventative treatments are one of the best ways to ensure disease free trees. Contact us today to learn more.
Photo credit: Extension.umn.edu.