The extensive root system of the golden elm
The crown of the golden elm can reach dimensions of 5-10 meters. The underground root system, however, exceeds this already very astonishing growth width many times over. Gold elms are known for their strong runners. The growth below the surface of the earth can be recognized by the fact that new shoots appear at some distance from the trunk. Many gardeners hold a grudge against them, at least when they venture into the fresh air in flower beds or lift paving stones.
Anyone who then tries to inhibit the formation of runners by pruning the golden elm causes the exact opposite. If you consider the dimensions of the root of the plant, the actual tree remains only a part of the plant. The root is used to supply nutrients and keep the tree alive. There must always be a balanced relationship between parts of plants above and below ground. If you shorten the upper part, the golden elm will compensate for the loss by spreading further underground.
also read
- Propagate golden elms
- The golden elm as a high trunk
- Treat brown leaves on golden elm correctly
Remove root runners
Simply pull the shoot out of the ground, cut through the roots and hope that no new branch will form? Unfortunately, it is not that easy to keep foothills in check. Follow the instructions below are more likely to succeed:
- trace the foothills back to the trunk
- dig out the entire foothill
- be careful not to damage the main root
A rhizome barrier serves two purposes
In addition, it is advisable to have a Rhizome barrier to assemble. For a certain time, you curb the formation of runners. At the same time, this lock protects against pests.
- dig a 1m deep hole near the roots
- put a Root lock (a special foil from specialist shops) around the root ball
- fill the trench with soil again
Use the foothills of the golden elm
Instead of throwing away the cut off runners, you can also use them to propagate your golden elm. However, sufficient roots must have already formed for this.
