Maintenance Landscaping Design

Ulmus americana is a species of elm native to eastern north america. in the united states, it is commonly known as the american elm, while in canada it is referred to as the american white elm or water elm. the american elm is a large deciduous tree, reaching heights of 18–30 m (60–100 ft) and trunk diameters of 0.5–1.2 m (1.6–3.9 ft). the tree typically lives for 100–150 years, with a few specimens reaching up to 300 years.

Also known as

• American Elm
  
• White Elm
  
• Rock Elm
  
• Gray Elm
  
• Field Elm

Things to Know

• Ulmus americana is a species of elm native to eastern North America.
  
• It typically grows to 18–27 m (60–90 ft) tall with a trunk diameter of 0.6–2 m (2–4 ft), occasionally reaching 40 m (130 ft) in height and 4 m (8 ft) in diameter.
  
• The leaves are alternate, simple, oblong to oval-shaped, 6–16 cm (4–3 in) long and 3–7 cm (2–8 in) wide, with a double-serrate margin and an oblique base.
  
• The perfect, apetalous flowers are wind-pollinated and produced in early spring before the leaves.
  
• The fruit is a samara 2–3 cm (0.8–1 in) long and 5–2 cm (0.6–0.8 in) wide, with a single seed.
  
• Ulmus americana is widely planted as an ornamental tree in streets and parks, especially in Europe.
  
• It is also planted for its timber, which is used for furniture, veneer and flooring.
  
• The tree is susceptible to Dutch elm disease, a disease which has killed millions of elm trees in North America and Europe.
  
• It is also susceptible to the Elm yellows phytoplasma which causes the leaves to turn yellow and the tree to eventually die.
  
• Ulmus americana is a host plant for the larvae of many Lepidoptera species including the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar.

Related plant:
Ulmus

Planting Process

1. For ulmus americana, first step is to identify a site that receives full sun and has well-drained soil.
   
2. Clear the site of any debris or vegetation.
   
3. loosen the topsoil to a depth of 12 inches (30 cm) with a shovel or hoe.
   
4. Add a 2-inch (5 cm) layer of compost to the soil and mix it in.
   
5. Dig a hole for each tree, making sure it is deep enough to accommodate the tree’s roots.
   
6. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping it down firmly.
   
7. Water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
   
8. Mulch around the tree with a 2-inch (5 cm) layer of wood chips or shredded bark.
   
9. Water the tree regularly during the first growing season to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
   
10. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10- Follow the manufacturer’s directions for application rates.

Related plant:
Ulmus Parvifolia

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, American elm (Ulmus americana) grows best on deep, rich, well-drained soils, although it tolerates a wide range of conditions. It generally does not do well on sandy soils or heavy clay. The tree is very tolerant of urban conditions and will even grow well in pavement.

About light

So, like the other trees, the American elm tree needs sunlight to grow. However, it can tolerate some shade, which makes it a good choice for planting under other trees. It prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature conditions that are necessary for the growth of the American elm are pretty similar to those of other trees. The American elm can survive in both hot and cold weather, but it does best in temperate conditions. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The American elm grows best in areas that have a lot of sun and a lot of rainfall.

Humidity Aspect

Ideal humidity condition for this plant would be around 40-50% because it originates from North America. The plant does not like to be in wet or soggy conditions for long periods of time as it will start to show signs of stress such as wilting or yellowing leaves. If the leaves start to droop, it is an indication that the plant is not receiving enough water.

The Fertilizer

For the fertilizer, this family of plant is a little different than most. Instead of requiring a lot of nitrogen, they prefer a mix with a higher concentration of phosphorus and potassium. This is because ulmus americana is a slow-growing tree. A good rule of thumb is to use about half the amount of nitrogen as you would for other plants. As for the root, it is important to not plant this tree too deeply. The roots need access to oxygen, so planting it too deep will suffocate the roots and kill the tree.

About light

Pruning is an important part of maintaining a healthy elm tree. Proper pruning techniques will ensure that your elm tree stays healthy and looks its best. When pruning your elm tree, be sure to: -Remove dead or dying branches -Trim back overgrown branches -Shape the tree Pruning your elm tree will keep it healthy and looking its best. By following the proper pruning techniques, you can ensure that your tree will stay healthy and look great for years to come.

About Propagating

Propagation ofulmus americana is best done by rooting semi-ripe cuttings taken in late summer or early autumn. The cuttings should be taken from the current year’s growth and should be about 10-15cm (4-6in) long. They should be planted immediately after being cut and kept in a sheltered, moist environment until they have rooted. Once rooted, they can be planted out into their permanent positions.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate studies have been conducted on young trees in the northern hemisphere. In a study of 12-year-old trees in France, the average growth rate was 24.4 cm (9.6 in) per year. A study of 7-year-old trees in Italy found that the average growth rate was 35.2 cm (13.9 in) per year. The largest recorded ulmus americana tree is in Ohio and has a growth rate of 46.2 cm (18.2 in) per year.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are powdery mildew, leaf spot, and Dutch elm disease. These problems can lead to the plant's leaves turning yellow, brown, and eventually dying. Powdery mildew is a white, powdery fungus that grows on the plant's leaves and stems. Leaf spot is a brown or black fungus that also affects the plant's leaves. Dutch elm disease is a serious disease that can kill the entire plant.

Growing Tips

• Make sure to plant your ulmus americana in an area that receives full sun.
  
• You will need to water your tree regularly, especially during the hotter months. Make sure the soil around your tree stays moist but not soggy.
  
• Fertilize your ulmus americana tree 2-3 times per year using a slow release fertilizer.
  
• Prune your tree as needed to remove any dead or diseased branches.
  
• Your ulmus americana tree will need to be staked when young to help it grow upright.
  
• Be on the lookout for pests and diseases such as aphids, scale, and Dutch elm disease. Treat any problems promptly.
  
• Once your ulmus americana tree matures, you can expect it to reach a height of 40-60 feet.
  
• The wood of your ulmus americana tree can be used for a variety of purposes such as furniture or

Similar Plants

• American Elm flowers
  
• American Elm tree
  
• American Elm bark
  
• American elm
  
• American Elm disease
  
• American Elm facts
  
• American Elm range
  
• American Elm identification
  
• American Elm habitat
  
• American Elm wood

Source:
American Elm (Ulmus americana)-Hort Answers - University of …
Ulmus americana - Species Page - NYFA: New York Flora Atlas
Ulmus americana, American elm | Trees of Stanford & Environs