Just about everyone loves trees in Ontario, and we count themselves lucky to be surrounded by so many of them, especially in the summertime. Tree shade provides a space underneath that’s several degrees cooler — a respite from oppressive heat. One of the trees that provides the greatest shade is the Dutch Elm. It was plentiful for centuries; but international trade introduced an intruder that ravaged our forests. This small beetle infected the Dutch Elm, and within only a few decades, those precious North American trees withered and died from attacks on their circulatory systems.
Unless you own property, or are responsible for the care of trees, it’s unlikely that you think much about how to care for the tree canopy. You may not realize that trees require care and protection in order to live a healthy life and remain for generations. Many property owners neglect their trees until there’s a major problem. When this happens, they get a very quick, painful, (and sometimes costly) education about what they could have done to prevent the damage.
Trees are vulnerable to a number of threats, both in wild and urban environments. The website Tree Canada shares information about good stewardship, and a list of the species of trees grown in Canada. They detail the benefits from proper maintenance and utilizing preservation techniques; and the importance of obtaining professional help from ISA Certified Arborists to assist in the care of this resource.
Dutch Elm Disease (DED) attacked these stately trees in North America in a pandemic starting in 1972. The fungus Ophiostoma ulmi sensu lato (O. ulmi s.l.), carried by the elm bark beetle, infects the tree, disabling it from receiving and circulating life-giving water. Without water the tree dies, beginning with branch and root. Lethal outcome is nearly 100% (although in some species, such as the English Elm, “suckers” will appear and can live for 15 years or so).
For the past four decades, researchers and scientists worldwide have worked to mitigate the effects of the disease, but without a huge investment, it’s unlikely we’ll find a cure.
To learn how to keep your trees in good health and prevent Dutch Elm Disease, contact our tree care professionals at Great Northern ReGreenery. We’re the tree service experts in York Region, Simcoe County and surrounding areas.