Dutch elm disease (DED)
We are responsible for the management of Dutch elm disease in East Sussex.
Background information
Dutch elm disease has killed millions of elm trees in the UK since its arrival in 1971. In partnership with other local authorities, a control zone was set up in 1973 to limit the spread of the disease in East Sussex and the surrounding area.
This has been extremely successful, for example:
- East Sussex now contains the only population of mature English elms in the world
- There are now many more elms inside the East Sussex zone than when the disease arrived – nearly 50,000. This includes a number of large veteran elms
What to look out for
During summer and early autumn, infected trees can be identified by yellowing and shrivelled leaves. Towards the tips of infected branches, the leaves will be brown as the infection gradually spreads down the infected branch.
The Forestry Commission website has more information, including how to diagnose the disease:
Report a sighting
If you see a suspected case of Dutch elm disease, please report it for advice. You can also attach a photograph:
For elms in Eastbourne and Brighton & Hove, see their websites:
