American Elm Tree

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: Full sun is best for the American Elm, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain a strong structure and dense canopy. While it can tolerate light shade, the tree will grow more slowly and may develop a thinner, less symmetrical crown.
• Soil: These trees thrive in rich, moist, loamy soil but are famous for their adaptability to tough conditions. If you have heavy clay, add organic compost to the planting hole to improve drainage, or if your soil is sandy, use mulch to help retain the moisture this tree craves.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, provide 10 to 15 gallons of water per inch of trunk diameter every week to ensure the root system anchors properly. Once established, the American Elm is surprisingly drought tolerant, though consistent moisture leads to faster growth and plusher foliage. Inconsistent watering during extreme heat can lead to early leaf drop or "scorching" where the leaf edges turn brown and brittle.

Pruning Tips

Because American Elms bloom on old wood in early spring, you should complete any structural pruning in late winter while the tree is dormant. Focus on removing competing "leaders" to maintain a single central trunk and thinning out rubbing branches to prevent bark wounds. Think of it like clearing a path for air to move through the canopy, which is the best way to keep the tree healthy and resistant to fungal issues.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as the buds begin to swell to fuel the seasons new growth. Avoid high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages soft, tender growth that will not have time to harden off before the first frost. This "late season spurt" is often killed by winter cold, which can leave the tree vulnerable to pests and diseases the following year.