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Why Do Slippery elm Vines Develop Gall Disease?
Slippery elm, also known as Sweet elm, Grey elm, Indian elm
Gall is a disease that deforms the growth of Slippery elm, causing abnormal swellings or outgrowths on the stems, branches, and leaves. The disease can reduce Slippery elm's vitality and aesthetic appeal, often caused by various pathogens or insects.

Symptom Analysis

The most evident symptoms of gall in Slippery elm involve abnormal growths or swellings, that appear on various parts of the plant - including stems, leaves, and branches. These galls, often spherical in shape, can vary in size and color.
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What Causes Gall Disease on Slippery elm?

Gall-making insects
Some insects, including certain wasps, mites, and aphids, cause galls by laying eggs in Slippery elm's tissues, leading to abnormal cellular responses and growth.
Pathogenic bacteria
Galls can also be caused by pathogenic bacteria like Agrobacterium tumefaciens, leading to crown gall disease in Slippery elm and other plant species.
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How to Treat Gall Disease on Slippery elm?

Non pesticide
Pruning: Infected branches, stems and leaves should be pruned and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease.

Good hygiene: Maintaining clean surroundings by regularly disposing of fallen leaves and branches can deter pests and inhibit the spread of gall-bacteria.
Pesticide
Insecticidal soap spray: Use insecticidal soap or a strong water spray to reduce infestations of gall-making insects.

Effective bactericides: Use bactericides like streptomycin or compounds containing copper to inhibit infection by gall-causing bacteria.

How to Prevent Gall on Slippery elm?

Regular inspection
Regular monitoring and early detection of gall disease can prevent its spread to healthy parts of Slippery elm.
Proper spacing
Properly spacing Slippery elm reduces the chances of the disease spreading and allows for adequate sunlight and airflow.
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When is Gall Most Active Period on Slippery elm?

The disease is most active during spring and early summer, when the gall-making insects are most active and the conditions are more conducive for bacteria to multiply and infect Slippery elm.

Infectivity

Gall is highly infectious as the disease can easily spread through pests and bacterial spores, moving from plant to plant.

Lethality

While being detrimental to Slippery elm's growth and aesthetics, gall is typically not lethal, unless compounded by the presence of other diseases.

FAQs on Slippery Elm

Can the gall disease kill Slippery elm?
While gall can severely impact Slippery elm's growth and aesthetic appeal, it's typically not lethal. However, it can weaken the plant making it more susceptible to other diseases.
How can I prevent gall disease from spreading in my Slippery elm?
To prevent spreading, prune and destroy infected parts, maintain cleanliness around the plant, and apply effective bactericides and insecticides as necessary.
What causes the abnormal growths or galls on my Slippery elm?
Galls are often caused by gall-making insects laying eggs inside Slippery elm's tissues or by pathogenic bacteria that disrupt regular cellular growth.
How frequently does Slippery elm need to be inspected for gall disease?
During active growing seasons, a weekly inspection of Slippery elm will help in early detection and mitigation of gall disease.
Does the gall disease affect Slippery elm's reproduction capacity?
While not directly affecting Slippery elm's reproductive capacity, gall may weaken the plant reducing its overall vigor, including its ability to reproduce effectively.
Is a gall-infested Slippery elm safe for nearby plant species?
A gall-infested Slippery elm poses a risk to nearby susceptible plant species due to the highly infectious nature of the gall disease.
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