| | Elm sanitation is essential to an integrated Dutch Elm Disease (DED) prevention program. The end of the pruning ban was September 30, 2006, it’s now time to start thinking about pruning dead wood out of elms. The only legal time to prune elms in Alberta is between October 1 and March 31. During this time, the native and smaller European elm bark beetles, responsible for spreading the deadly DED fungus, are not active.
“Elm bark beetles feed on healthy elms and breed and over winter in dead and dying elm trees,” says DED coordinator Janet Feddes-Calpas. “If elm trees are pruned between April 1 and September 30, these vectors of the disease are drawn to the scent of the fresh pruning cuts, potentially attracting infested beetles and infecting your otherwise healthy elm.”
Having a tree pruned properly is important. Many trees are killed or ruined annually from improper pruning than by pests. Pruning, like any other skill, requires knowledge and should be done by a professional certified arborist who can determine what type of pruning is necessary to maintain or improve the health, appearance and safety of a tree. Gone is the old idea that anyone with a chain saw or a pruning saw can be a landscape pruner.
Topping or removing an excessive amount of live wood is not recommended as this will weaken the tree’s structure and shorten its lifespan. It is essential that all dead wood be removed and properly disposed of by burning, burying or chipping before March 31. Also, please remember that it is illegal to transport or store elm firewood.
“Alberta is still free of DED, although its borders are being pressed from two sides, Saskatchewan and Montana, areas that are both battling the disease,” says Feddes-Calpas. “There is no cure once an elm is infected, but DED can be prevented. We must stay vigilant to keep our elms healthy.”
For more information on how to prevent DED, call the toll free provincial hotline by dialling 310-0000 and asking for (403) 782-8613. Information is also available on the Society to Prevent Dutch Elm Disease (STOPDED) website.
Contact: Janet Feddes-Calpas (403) 782-8613 |
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