Oak Cousins in Danger

Tim Boland sent us a link to an article in Martha's Vineyard Magazine dealing with a worrying disease that is attacking beeches (Fagus spp.) in North America. In the article, Tim is quoted explaining the impact of the disease in Polly Hill Arboretum, where he is Executive Director. 

"North America is undergoing a very serious decline in certain tree genera, including our beloved American beech (Fagus grandifolia)," said Tim. "Beech Leaf Disease is a relatively new import of a nematode that threatens to collapse one of the most iconic Fagaceae members in our flora. The article outlines its presence beginning last year. For our collections it’s been quite demoralizing. The first trees planted by the Arboretum's founder Polly Hill were European beech (F. sylvatica) cultivars and these majestic giants are struggling to survive."