Elm yellows

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Elm yellows, also known as elm phloem necrosis, is a plant disease that affects elm trees. It is caused by a type of bacteria known as phytoplasma. This disease is characterized by the yellowing of leaves, wilting, and eventually the death of the tree.

Causes

Elm yellows is caused by a phytoplasma, which is a type of bacteria that lacks a cell wall. These bacteria are transmitted by insect vectors, primarily leafhoppers and spittlebugs. The phytoplasma infects the phloem of the tree, disrupting the transport of nutrients and causing the characteristic symptoms of the disease.

Symptoms

The symptoms of elm yellows include:

• Yellowing of the leaves, which may start at the tips and edges and progress inward.
• Wilting of the leaves and branches.
• Premature leaf drop.
• Death of the tree, which can occur within a year of infection.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of elm yellows can be challenging, as the symptoms can be similar to other diseases and environmental stressors. Laboratory testing is often required to confirm the presence of the phytoplasma. This can involve polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing to detect the phytoplasma DNA in the tree's tissues.

Management

There is currently no cure for elm yellows. Management strategies focus on prevention and control, including:

• Removing and destroying infected trees to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Controlling the insect vectors that transmit the phytoplasma.
• Planting resistant varieties of elm trees, if available.

See also

• Dutch elm disease
• Phytoplasma
• Plant pathology

External links

• USDA Forest Service - Elm Yellows
• Purdue Extension - Elm Yellows