Treating Dutch Elm Disease
What is Dutch Elm Disease?
If you're facing the devastating effects of Dutch Elm Disease, Korte Tree Care is here to provide professional and effective treatment services. We understand the urgency of combating this vascular wilt disease, and our experienced team is dedicated to preserving the health and beauty of your elms. Serving Columbia and Jefferson City, we offer comprehensive solutions to control Dutch Elm Disease and safeguard your trees.
Dutch Elm Disease is caused by the fungus Ophiostoma novo-ulmi. The pathogens survive in the bark and outer wood of dying or recently deceased elm trees, as well as in elm logs, in the form of mycelia and synnemata with conidia. These fungi are spread by elm bark beetles, acting as vectors. Typically, trees infected by beetles display initial symptoms in the upper sections of the crown. On the other hand, trees infected through root grafts tend to exhibit symptoms lower in the crown. When the fungi enter through a root graft, they can swiftly spread throughout the tree's vascular system, causing the entire tree to wilt and ultimately die. Root grafts naturally form between closely spaced elm trees with intertwined roots. Elms located within 20 feet of each other have a nearly 100% chance of infection through root grafts, whereas the likelihood of spread decreases when elms are at least 40 feet apart.
How do I Treat Dutch Elm Disease?
While there is currently no known cure for Dutch Elm Disease in infected trees, treatment can help prolong their lifespan for a few years. At Korte Tree Care, we focus on prevention, which has proven effective through the use of Propiconazole injections every two years. These injections help protect healthy elms from infection and maintain their vitality.Curing Dutch Elm Disease in infected trees isn't possible other than to lengthen their life a few years. All the trees we have treated have eventually died. Prevention has been effective when done with injections of Propiconazole every two years.
Stay ahead of the curve with dutch elm prevention. Contact Korte Tree Care today to schedule a consultation. We proudly serve Columbia, Jefferson City, and the surrounding areas, delivering exceptional care and expertise for your trees.
