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Question
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Can
I separate two elms that have grown together?
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| Answer |
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Probably the best
solution would be to pick the best one, keep it and remove the
other. I hate to suggest that you cut one seedling, but
you will only have problems if you leave them together. I fear
that if you try to separate them you may lose both.
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| Question |
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How
suitable is the Siberian elm for use as a windbreak? |
| Answer |
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I would have to say the
Siberian elm is considered a weed species
in many cities. It is extremely hardy and will grow out of a
crack in the pavement with very little soil
available. It is a 'dirty' tree that sheds branches,
leaves, seeds etc. , almost continually. If you are committed to
maintenance then it can be used as a windbreak, but if the tree is left to grow
without pruning it will soon become unmanageable
and unsightly. The species is best used as a hedge
species.
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| Question |
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How do I
remove stumps? |
| Answer |
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Have someone come
with a stump grinder and grind it down al least 6 inches below the
grade. If that doesn't work, there are over-the-counter products
available at most garden centers that inhibit any new sprouting.
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| Question |
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My elm tree
seems healthy, but I've noticed that there are large tracts of bark
running vertically from the base up to 3-4 feet that can be easily
peeled away. What may have caused this and what should I do? |
| Answer |
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When elms get to
be larger in diameter, there is a tendency for outer bark to loosen to
allow for the expansion of the tree. This is also why bark tends
to be furrowed in appearance. Generally, as this is a natural occurrence,
you need not take any special action. To be sure, however, it is
always a good idea to consult a qualified arborist.
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| Question |
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I live in Florida and I
recently bought two elm trees. They both lost the majority of
their leaves. Do elm trees usually lose their leaves this far south? |
| Answer |
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American elms are deciduous
broadleaf trees and as such, they lose their leaves in the fall.
In the natural habitat, I haven't heard of any instance where they kept
their leaves for the winter. When they are transplanted into an
area with a warmer climate such as Florida, however, they could
potentially act quite differently.
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