The Golden Elm
An outstanding tree with golden green foliage Ulmus glabra Lutescens is common;y called the Golden Elm and it makes a good shade tree for larger gardens and is also widely used in parks and for street plantings.
Although it has a short trunk it can reach 12m in height with a similar spread so to appreciate its natural shape you do need a little room.
Regarded by many as one of the most attractive deciduous trees for cool temperate climates the foliage is ribbed and will turn a translucent golden yellow in autumn.
The openness of the structure means that Ulmus glabra Lutescens will not create dense shade like some others.
How To Grow The Golden Elm – Basic Care
Ulmus glabra Lutescens is regarded as having a moderate growth rate, ensuring good moisture and a good soil with some added fertiliser for the first years will encourage stronger and faster growth.
New planting can be watered every 2 weeks with a liquid seaweed fertiliser to promote strong root growth.
- Choose a position in full sun to part shade with a humus rich deep soil.
- Prepare the soil well by adding compost and aged cow manure.
- The planting hole should be 2 – 3 times the width of the pot and a little deeper.
- This loosens the soil, allows the compost and manure to spread through and encourages good root growth early on.
- The Bottom of the planting hole need to raised so that your new Golden Elm will sit at the same level was in the pot/container.
- Young trees should be staked to ensure an upright growth habit and prevent damage until established.
- Water in well through the first summers and mulch around the tree to ensure a cool root run.
- Once established watering is only require during prolonged dry periods.
Growth is upright for the first few years and then the tree forms a broader crown.
The root system is extensive which prohibits growing many plants beneath the tree. Plants come in two forms, one on its own root system and the other grafted onto U.procera rootstock which has a tendency to sucker when disturbed
Ongoing Care
One established the Golden Elm needs little care.
Like most European Elm species the Golden Elm is susceptible to Elm Leaf Beetle and should treated each year if the problem arises.
Pruning Ulmus glabra Lutescens
The natural growth habit of the Golden Elm means that pruning is generally not required other than the removal of any damaged wood.
Most nurseries will have undertaken formative pruning so look for a tree with one central leader.
Ulmus glabra Lutescens is available for sale from the following participating suppliers
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au
"Propagation and Production of Native and Exotic Trees
with Natural Root Systems from 2 to 2,000 lts."
www.njrivett.com.au