Since the late 1950s, homeowners in the York region have dealt with Dutch Elm disease. These beautiful trees need to be protected from further damage from the Dutch Elm beetle responsible for spreading the disease. Homeowners may consider having an arborist apply a fungicide to keep trees healthy. While an experienced arborist will recommend the proper chemical, propiconazole and thiabendazole are active ingredients shown to be effective in treating this disease.
Stop the Spread of Dutch Elm Disease
Many trees in the York region already have Dutch Elm. One symptom is noticeable during the late summer and early fall: This clue occurs when leaves on one or more branches of the outer crown of an elm tree turn yellow, then wilt, before finally turning brown and falling to the ground. If the tree owner pulls the bark away from one of the branches containing wilting leaves, they may notice brown streaking along the sapwood. If you notice these signs, it is imperative to act quickly. This disease can be carried by the Dutch Elm beetle and spread it quickly between trees through the root system.
Who to Call
When you call a tree service, they will first remove any branches showing signs of Dutch Elm disease. They will also remove branches at least five feet lower than the disease’s current (visible) location. It is vital that this be done immediately. If the disease is allowed to spread, the entire tree must be cut down and its stump removed. When branches or trees are removed, the wood must be discarded properly, as it serves as a breeding ground for the beetle. Additionally, a tree service may sever root grafts under the ground using special tool to prevent the disease spreading from one tree to the next. An arborist may also recommend the application of fungicide. If a tree needs to be removed, consider replacing it with a disease-tolerant Elm tree that does well in the York region. A professional arborist will be able to make a good recommendation.
Whether you are taking preventative steps to stop Dutch Elm disease from touching your property or are dealing with an ongoing problem, contact Great Northern ReGreenery to get experienced knowledge and recommendations. Each of our teams has an arborist who knows the correct steps to prevent or stop Dutch elm disease. Our specialists are also licensed to apply the needed chemicals in a safe and effective manner. We will also take away the diseased wood, disposing of it in a method that stops the spread of this disease.
If you would like to discuss specifics of your case, then call Great Northern ReGreenery at (905) 775-7444 or (705) 458-4600.