Green Horizons
Volume 3, Number 4
Autumn 1998
Elm a survivor
The June issue of Smithsonian magazine reports there is hope
for the survival of the American elm. This traditional shade
tree that is responsible for the name of streets in almost
every American village and town has almost disappeared from
the scene. Dutch elm disease has devastated the species
since it was discovered in 1919.
Thanks to researchers at the National Arboretum at Glenn
Dale, Maryland, the American elm may be making a comeback.
At least two strains of Dutch elm disease-resistant trees
have been selected and thoroughly tested. These strains are
being released through a few nurseries. Perhaps we'll see
Elm Street lined with the stately giants once again.