Elm Yellows

Elm Yellows is a disease caused by a microscopic organism called a phytoplasma that infects elm trees, disrupting their ability to transport nutrients and water. This leads to symptoms such as yellowing and wilting of leaves, premature leaf drop, and dieback of branches. The disease spreads mainly through insect vectors, like certain types of leafhoppers, which carry the phytoplasma from infected to healthy trees. Elm Yellows is serious because it can severely weaken and eventually kill affected elm trees, and there is no effective cure. Managing the disease involves monitoring and controlling insect vectors to prevent its spread.