Elm Care Instructions

Scientific Name: Ulmus spp.

Category: Deciduous Tree

Habit: Upright

Growth rate: Fast (once established)

Landscape benefits and culture: A fast growing landscape tree with green leaves and wafer shaped seed pods in the fall. Lacebark elms (Ulmus parviflora) have mottled, exfoliating bark and excellent resistance to Dutch Elm disease, Japanese beetles and elm leaf beetle. Recent introductions of the American elm (Ulmus americana) have better resistance to Dutch Elm disease than the straight species or older cultivars. Elms prefer full sun, and moist well drained soil, but can tolerate a variety of soil types. 

Pruning: Early spring (to prevent bark beetles)

Potential pests/issues: Dutch Elm Disease, spread by elm bark beetles, has almost driven American elms to extinction. Only plant resistant cultivars, select hybrid elms or select lacebark elms. Japanese beetles and elm leaf beetle can damage foliage. Lacebark elms can be damaged by ice storms.