Whether there’s an American elm sitting on your property or you recently decided to reinvigorate your garden, the tree will require care. With the following guide and the help of a tree service, you’ll enjoy this tree’s verdant beauty for years to come.

What Should You Know About American Elm Trees?

Elm trees are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. They have shallow root systems and prefer full sun or partial shade. When grown in containers, they can be planted at any time. For bare-root or balled and burlapped elms, planting in the spring or late fall is best.

These trees grow well in Missouri’s cold climate, reaching up to 120 feet tall and living for over 300 years. They have vase-shaped crowns and moderately dense foliage, creating pleasant shady spots in a yard.

In the spring, they produce small flowers before the leaves open. In the autumn, the leaves turn a pretty yellow color.

How Do You Care For Them?

After planting the tree, the tree service adds mulch to keep the soil moist and smother pesky weeds. You can work together to decide which type of mulch to use. For shredded leaf mulch, the professional applies a two-inch layer, while bark requires a three-inch layer.

If it doesn’t rain regularly, water your young tree weekly. Once the tree is mature, you can reserve watering to dry seasons.

Dutch elm disease is common in this species. This is a fungus spread by elm bark beetles, and is almost always fatal for elms. You might be able to find a disease-resistant specimen, but regardless, your tree service will stay alert for signs of disease, such as yellowing and wilting leaves.

Gypsy moths, elm borers, mites, and scales are other common pests found in American elms. Depending on the pest that afflicts your tree, the tree service might recommend pruning, irrigating, or fungicide to restore its health.

 

If you need quality tree care, turn to Liscombe Tree Service in St. Charles, MO. Their expert arborists provide effective and affordable tree services, including pruning, trimming, and health inspections. No matter how big or small the job is, their arborists have been trained to handle it. Call (314) 650-9055 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for a gallery of their work.