Dutch Elm Disease

Reports from Dutch Elm Disease research

Benjamin Held, Department of Plant Pathology
Chad Giblin, formerly with the Department of Forest Resources
Garrett Beier, formerly with Department of Plant Pathology
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities Campus, Saint Paul, MN

Given our work on American and hybrid elms, we are frequently asked to help diagnose potential cases of Dutch elm disease in the disease-resistant elm population. We have been observing Dutch elm disease (DED) with increasing frequency, especially in the ‘Princeton’ American elm population. It is unclear if this relates to an overall increase in incidence of the disease or just more frequent observation due to a growing population and more frequent scouting.

Additionally, there have been increasing reports of unexplained dieback and death in well-established and otherwise healthy hybrid elms, especially Accolade elm. Although we have confirmed DED in Accolade elms in the past, they usually survive infection, especially when coupled with sanitation pruning.

What follows is a sample of cases from our “Dutch Elm Disease Files”. We are still actively collecting samples from American and hybrid elms with DED or unexplained symptoms. If you observe similar problems, please let us know! You can send information and photos to [email protected].

Leaves Showing Wilt Symptoms from DED

Leaves Showing Wilt Symptoms from DED

A Valley Forge Elm with DED Wilt Symptoms

A Valley Forge Elm with DED Wilt Symptoms

Molecular Techniques are Used to Confirm Identity and Study Isolated Fungi

Molecular Techniques are Used to Confirm Identity and Study Isolated Fungi

The DED Pathogen Ophiostoma novo-ulmi growing from sections of diseased elm tissue

The DED Pathogen Ophiostoma novo-ulmi growing from sections of diseased elm tissue