Is it necessary to cut back?
Basically, the elm is one of the easy-care deciduous trees that do not have to be cut. You should only use scissors in the following situations:
- to achieve a particularly narrow growth or to keep the elm at a certain height
- when branches or twigs turn brown to prevent the deciduous tree from completely shrinking
also read
- The elm: a species-rich tree
- The seeds of the elm
- Learning to identify the leaves of the elm
The elm can also tolerate heavy pruning. Note, however, that the more you shorten the above-ground parts of the plant, the more root runners it forms.
The right time
In order to encourage the regeneration of young shoots and buds, you should prune your elm before it sprouts. Usually February and March. In addition, this point in time offers the advantage that the holes that arise in the process can quickly grow again and the elm quickly reassumes its well-groomed appearance. Incidentally, if the elm is injured, it creates a fragrance that attracts pests. In winter, between November and February, production is kept within limits. Requirements for the cut date are cloudy weather and a frost-free day.
Important steps in cutting the elm
- remove any branches that are too dense and which are hindering each other due to their growth
- start by thinning the crown and slowly work your way out
- The elm can also tolerate heavy pruning
- but then shorten the tree to a maximum of 3 m. This is the minimum size if you don't want your elm tree to be damaged
- after planting your elm, pruning is not recommended. Give the tree about three years to adjust to the new environment
