The American Elm has been a part of our surroundings for many years. Numerous cities planted them along their streets because of the stately beauty they provided.

The introduction of Dutch Elm Disease into our country has slowly killed many of these lovely American Elm trees. Dutch Elm Disease causes a wilting or shriveling and drying out of the leaves and shoots. Affected branches are killed quickly and the leaves drop. One or more branches may be affected, or disease symptoms may develop throughout the entire crown at once. The disease can travel by root graft and can easily affect other Elms nearby. The elm bark beetle carries the fungus disease. The disease is difficult to control. Our American Elm Disease Management Program is recommended as a preventative to decrease the chances of contracting the disease.

The various recommendations listed below are to be performed at specific times within the growing season. Proper pruning of any deadwood and diseased branches is also important, but must be done before April 1st or after September 15th, because of the insect attraction to pruning cuts. Insects are also drawn to dead and dying branches. Our American Elm Disease Management Program may consist of:

- Spring fertilization
- Injection
- Inspection and recommendations
- Fall spray for bark beetles

Fertilization is the first application in the Spring to give the tree the nutrients it needs to maintain optimum health. An injection is the next application. Our certified applicator systemically introduces the appropriate chemicals into the tree. The chemicals can move freely within the sap system of the tree and into the branches and leaves.

The injection time varies depending on the soil moisture, weather conditions, or the systemic chemical being used.  In September, a spray for the active bark beetle may be applied.