Dying elm trees.

[Pete Tattam]

How on earth does "chipping the bark" in any way reduce spread????

 

It removes the possibility of beetles laying eggs under the bark (now its in minute peices) and the resultant larvae feeding. Obviously it has no effect on the other means of transmission.

[3dogs]

So if I understand the burn argument. It's to leave the rootstock in place and remove everything on top totally so that the roots may regenerate? What's the science behind that? Is it that the suckers will at least be around for 20 more years before they also fall victim? Is it the theory that if we can keep the species alive they will eventually develop resistance to this disease?

 

Not being a $%^6, just want to know what's best to do.

 

No real science its just the most efficent way of removing the habbitat which the eggs and larvae thrive. The other benefit from burning is, it will also encourage new growth from the burn area, so along with thinning you can change the eco structure of the woodland by letting in light whilst freeing nutriants. However these days there is a need to be sypathetic to all the flora and fauna whist trying to improve the woodland so there needs to be a balance between tree, and woodland management.

[Stereo]

If I want to burn the wood at home, what steps should I take? Or is this a no go? Log it on site and straight into builders bags or straight into a closed shed? Seems a shame to chuck away a winters worth of premium hardwood fuel.