Dutch Elm Disease

Dutch Elm Disease has had a devastating affect on American Elm trees in the midwest for many decades. The loss of so many shady elms has changed the look of many streets and yards. You can help stop the spread of this disease by recognizing the symptoms and taking preventative measures.

What Is Dutch Elm Disease?

Dutch Elm Disease is a vascular wilt disease caused by a fungus transmitted through Elm Bark Beetles or root grafts

It causes rapid decline within just six weeks and is almost always fatal

It spreads very quickly so it is important to catch it early

What Are The Symptoms Of Dutch Elm Disease?

– Wilting, yellowing and browning leaves

– Discoloration under bark

– Sapwood streaking

– Evidence of Elm Bark Beetles

– Branch die back


Bark Test
Elm Bark Beetle
Bark Beetle Galleries
Browning Leaves
Photos: M. Grabowski, UMN Extension

How Is Dutch Elm Disease Treated?

– Proactive fungicide trunk injections and nutritional treatments

– Heavy pruning of damaged and infected areas to remove disease

– Trenching between infected trees to stop root spread of fungi

– Proper disposal of infected wood and disinfection of tools

– Keeping trees healthy with regular pruning during dormant periods only to minimize risk of exposure

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