Dutch Elm Disease

Learn more about the common fungal disease and how our tree service experts treat it.

(203) 902-3639

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Contact our team by filling out the form below or by calling (203) 902-3639

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Contact our team by filling out the form below or by calling (203) 902-3639

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How to Address Dutch Elm Disease in Guilford

Dutch elm disease has had a long term impact on the health and presence of elm trees in Connecticut. It has lead to the loss of many street trees over the course of the last century since the disease was first found in the United States in 1928.

As time has gone on, management programs and options for treatment have appeared on the market. The experts at Family Tree Care are pleased to offer a systemic fungicide that protects elms from the disease. Call us to learn more about what we can do for your property to protect your trees from the invading fungus.

How Dutch Elm Disease Works

Dutch Elm Disease has been caused by two different fungi:

Ophiostoma ulmi: The original, less aggressive species
Ophiostoma novo-ulmi: A more aggressive species responsible for most modern infections.

The disease is typically spread by the elm bark beetle or by root grafting. The fungus grows inside the tree’s vascular system after the initial spread. In an attempt at self-preservation, the tree will cut off its water-conducting vessels to contain the fungus, but this also prevents the tree from accessing its own water supply. Trees usually die with a few years after infection.