pros and cons of elm trees

Theres no cure once the tree is infected, but this species can withstand it. Siberian elm (Ulmus pumila) is a fast-growing, aggressive tree that tolerates all kinds of difficult growing conditions. It is because once it is dried, the odor reduces, and there remains no prominent smell. This tree is a sleeper. Its also prone to wind damage, disease and drought. Debra is a member of The Spruce Gardening andPlant Care Review Board. It is even used in making furniture. For Shubhra, the world is an ocean of possibilities that she cant wait to explore. On the other hand, pine wood is a softwood by nature. Its botanical name is Celtis occidentalis, and it is a relative of elm trees but with larger leaves and . In its native environment, this elm tree is found in floodplains and along river banks. The fruit is eaten by birds and distributed far and wide. No, elm is not hard to burn. It is the most common elm tree in Texas and easy to grow in a wide range of soils. If planted in preferred conditions and given proper care, a Chinese elm can live anywhere from 50 to 150 years. However, elm has a hardness Janka rating of 830 lbf and is classified as a soft hardwood. Therefore, they are popularly used for making furniture. It is especially when the wood is green. Your bonsai needs to be pruned often to keep it in the proper form and to promote new growth. All you need is a match and some tinder, and youre good to go. It seeds itself all around and, worse, it gives off a chemical to kill competing vegetation, making it difficult to landscape around. That makes them a good choice for woodworking. American pioneers used elm wood for wagon wheels. And not to mention, the price always adds along with it. Elm trees look like the common shade trees you may have seen lining streets in many American cities and towns; they are tall with large spreading canopies. Chinese elms have many positive attributes, which make them an excellent, but underutilized landscape tree. There are 30 to 40 species of deciduous trees within the genus, and some types of elm trees have been popular landscape trees for centuries. Since they are light and soft in nature, they are very easy to work with, and their bending qualities also provide workers the convenience to form different and unique objects with them. He grew up across the street from a park arboretum and has a lifelong passion for gardening in general and trees in particular. Maple: 3. Aside from their attractive dark-green leaves and graceful branches, the shrubs feature an exfoliating bark. Here are some helpful tips for landscaping around a tree. Due to its versatile and productive features, elm wood is used for various purposes. Unfortunately, as beautiful, graceful and stately as they are, many experts no longer recommend planting elms because of their vulnerability to a disease called Dutch elm disease. However, elm wood is not perfect. However, due to the Dutch elm disease, their availability has been greatly decreased. Cost: Elm wood is usually moderately priced. These trees are a species in the plant family Ulmaceae. Here are few alternatives to Elm wood if you dont want to use it. Red elm is also known as Slippery elm and Soft elm. Avoid letting the soil become fully dry for a long period of time. US Department of Agriculture. But many trees succumbed to the disease. Here are 11 to consider. Avoid planting a female ginkgo in your yard, though, because it will drop messy fruit in fall that smells a bit like vomit when it starts to rot. However, it is important to note that it should not be confused with the Siberian elm tree (Ulmus pumila). Elm wood is a moderately priced wood. Therefore, many try to avoid the usage of elm wood and choose some other alternative. In many areas of North America, the American elm tree was the primary shade tree. Siberian elm is also weak-wooded and prone to storm and ice damage. You can also read about its Chinese name. It has also been planted in many other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. It comes from coniferous trees that are evergreen and do not shed trees, unlike deciduous trees. Its easy to find and relatively inexpensive, and it burns hot and clean. It is usually resistant to Dutch elm disease, which is spread by bark beetles. As the most common backyard elm in the United States, this tree is largely regarded as a pest-resistant species because it is avoided by the Japanese beetle and other pests like the elm leaf beetle. They are mostly found in eastern Asia in areas like China, Hong Kong, Japan, and Macau. They are very susceptible to insect and pest attacks, and the products can damage very soon and easily. The English elm grows very fast and can have a canopy spread up to 40 feet. The Morton Arboretum lists 18 American elm cultivars that are resistant to Dutch elm disease. Since splitting is not easy, they are not a good option when it concerns the usage of the wood as firewood or as a smoking prop. This genus has 35 different species. The shrub also has a resistance to phloem necrosis, a deadly disease that is spread by root grafts of leafhoppers. If youre concerned about smoking in your home, or if youre on a budget, you may want to choose another type of wood to use for your fireplace or wood stove.https://youtu.be/dgmdIvXjFyEif(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[468,60],'topwoodworkingadvice_com-box-3','ezslot_5',635,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-topwoodworkingadvice_com-box-3-0');Video cant be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Elm Firewood How Does it Compare? But its good burning qualities make it somewhat a good option when it concerns an indoor fireplace. Splitting an elm wood will require a lot of time if one considers using hand tools. Cedar Elm. Elm wood is a hardwood that is extracted from elm trees that are classified as deciduous trees. Although this is the hallmark species most devastated by Dutch elm disease, it has made a comeback over the years as horticulturists have developed cultivars that better withstand the disease, including 'Valley Forge', 'Princeton', 'Lewis and Clark', and 'Jefferson'. Use a general-purpose blend for trees, and apply as directed by the manufacturer. The trees are also messy, continually dropping leaves and sticks. There are around 15 different species of elm wood, and they are specifically known for their versatile properties. Native to the Middle East, cedar of Lebanon tolerates cold better than deodar. I had a gardeners hack away the overhead branches extending over my driveway. Also, the planing of elm wood can result in poor fuzzy surfaces, and it has poor dimension stability. Even after the prevalence of the Dutch Elm Disease, elm wood is quite valuable for the price and its productive properties. The leaves fall into the vents at the bottom of the windshield and hood, clogging up and then falling into the engine compartment when I try to clean out the accumulated leaves. Fortunately, this is not a common occurrence. It's used today to construct agricultural implements and sporting goods, barrel staves, industrial flooring, and boxes and crates. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. Try these 13 creative driveway landscaping ideas. One strong selling point is that lacebark elm has proven to be more resistant to Dutch elm disease, a deadly disease that often befalls other types of elm trees. Color and appearance: Elm wood is a beautiful and versatile wood whose color can vary substantially. Yet, the elm bark beetle, which is responsible for spreading the disease, tends to avoid the European white elm. 03 of 12. They are also easy to cut and re-shaped, making them easy to work with. In fact, elm wood is classified under the soft hardwood category with a Janka rating of 830. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Elm wood is hardwood that comes from elm trees which are a type of deciduous and semi-deciduous trees. Kidadl is supported by you, the reader. It burns hot and provides good heat output, making it perfect for those cold winter nights. If you like this care guide, then you will also want to check our guide on how to raise and take care of hickory trees. Rewarding. You can bury Chinese elm seeds in a garden using a container as early as late August, but it is best to wait until after the first frost. In addition to his journalism degree, he has studied horticulture and is a Master Gardener. Meet 10 great tree species you may want to plant in your yard. It has good vigor, tolerates poor soils, grows fast, but . Most species produce flowers that develop into fruiting bodies, called samaras, each containing one seed. That compensates to some extent and keeps the price at a moderate level in comparison to other wood. This is a cultivar of American elm. The grain of the wood is important when it comes to burning. As an Amazon Associate, Kidadl earns from qualifying purchases. Once established, the care of Chinese lacebark elms is uninvolved. Lacebark Elm Pros and Cons If you're thinking about planting lacebark elm, growing this versatile tree is easy in well-drained soil- although it tolerates nearly any type of soil, including clay. If you are looking for an attractive addition to your property, look no further. But it has interlocked grain patterns that make it very tough and strong. consider this attractive DIY privacy screen. They have a striking bark with varicolored green, gray and orange exterior bark plates. Need some landscaping inspiration along your driveway? The trailing, twisting branches and dense foliage can create a lovely hidden area underneath. So, it is considered harder and tougher than elm. With the silvery white foliage, that might not seem like such a bad thing, but Russian olive is a thug. Its always a good idea to check with your local cooperative extension office before growing lacebark elm trees. Elm wood is an average choice when it comes to using it in a fireplace. Try these 13 creative driveway landscaping ideas. Then the trees sprout into thickets that crowd out other plants. Plant this slow grower in late fall. When you buy through the links on our site we may earn a commission. They can take any type of stain or dye and provide a clean touch. Rot-Resistance: Elm wood is not considered very rot resistant. There are a few reasons why you might not want to use elm wood for burning. 2023 Gardening Know How, Future US LLC, Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036. Therefore, elm wood furniture or any other products are not considered long-lasting products, and most people often tend to choose other wood over elm wood. Versatile nature: One of the best qualities of elm wood is that they are very versatile. Eyes that are red and itchy, as well as skin irritations, are typical symptoms. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. So, these reasons indicate that elm wood is ideal for making good furniture. The twisted pattern makes the elm wood hold its shape and is resistant to splitting. Chinese elms require a lot of light, just like the majority of bonsai. Many have leaves and mature forms that are distinctly different from American elms . In fact, its quite easy. Although it is also a quickly growing woody perennial, its branches break easily, and it is susceptible to many diseases and pests. Additionally, a very low number of individuals had harmful reactions. There are a few things to consider before using elm wood as firewood, however. However, there are some downsides to using elm wood as well. However, due to its texture, it takes stains and finishes very well. Unfortunately, this species is susceptible to Dutch elm disease and phloem necrosis and therefore isn't recommended for home landscapes. At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world. It is mainly because elm wood is amongst soft kinds of hardwood but also strong and tough. Pests and diseases easily infect this type of elm since it is so popular as a street tree. On the other hand, elm woods do not have much resistance quality. Although the plant tolerates various light conditions, full sun brings the best growth. Identifying Elm Trees by Leaves, Bark, and Size. Do plant it if you live in the hardiness zones. But usually, the heartwood of elm woods has a warm hue. The graceful branches, spreading like a crown and called weeping branches, have clusters of leaves that emerge as green in the spring and change to light yellow during fall. Find more gardening information on Gardening Know How: Keep up to date with all that's happening in and around the garden. It should be big and wide, like a metric diameter ruler! Additionally, lacebark is considered to be invasive in some areas of the eastern and southwestern United States. Most gardeners are overwhelmed by their choices and often pick something that grows in abundance in their neighborhoods. In Chinese history, it was believed that elm trees could provide immortality, which is why they were planted in the Imperial Gardens. Allow Necessary Cookies & Continue Debra LaGattuta is a gardening expert with three decades of experience in perennial and flowering plants, container gardening, and raised bed vegetable gardening. University of Minnesota Extension. It also emits a strong, unpleasant odor when it is green. It is also because they grow easily and are abundant. Different objects are made of wood not only to gain an aesthetic look but to experience the unique features that plastics or other materials cannot provide. The American Elm, of all elm varieties, is the most long-lived tree, with a lifespan of around 300-400 years. Growing four to five feet a year in an upright shape that fit many backyards it was the perfect tree. Check your inbox for your latest news from us. roots can be problematic around house foundations. Its weak wood is prone to breaking during severe weather, and the female trees also drop messy seeds. Plants that work well as groundcover include: If youre looking for woody companions, the following work well: About the author: Carley Miller is a horticultural expert at TheGreenPinky. But there is one choice that is often overlooked. People with fever or Neuritis can use the flowers to help them feel better. This is the best way to stop invasive plants from taking over your garden. 10 great tree species you may want to plant in your yard. Be sure not to bunch the fertilizer up against the trunk to prevent burning. The most common elm variety found in Texas, the cedar elm tree is susceptible to Dutch elm disease, though not as much as the American elm. It is native to North Eastern North America and has been introduced to Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. That makes it a bad choice for using outside. They are very susceptible to pest attacks and can damage easily if used outdoors. Chalk this one up with the weeping willow: a fine tree in the country or along a waterway, but not necessarily in your yard. You dont want to plant it where its mature height and width interfere with structures or powerlines. But sometimes, the price is hiked due to the damage done by Dutch Elm Disease, which affects its availability. If privacy is lacking in your yard, consider this attractive DIY privacy screen. The cedar elm serves dual purposes. Please see my full disclosure policy for details. However, it is not the best choice. One thing to keep in mind is that drake elms reseed prodigiously. You want to choose wood that has a tight grain, as this will help it burn more evenly and produce less smoke. Elm tree leaves are typically oval with serrated edges. Subscribe for virtual tools, STEM-inspired play, The Chinese elm has a rounded shape and distinctive exfoliating bark in shades of brown, gray, green, and orange. Fertilize lacebark elm in early spring and again in late autumn, well before the soil freezes. And the birds get most of it, and then leave droppings on your car. The elm has an honorable place in American history. Here are some things to consider before you burn elm wood in your fireplace or wood stove. So, it is very popularly used for making pulpwood, boxes, baskets, veneers, furniture, etc. Trees that are particularly susceptible to the disease may die within a year. This site is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Chinese elms also show good resistance to Japanese beetles and the elm leaf beetle. The leaves turn shades of red and purple in the fall and the Chinese elm fruit hangs flat and papery, in dense clusters. Although lacebark elm (Ulmus parvifolia) is native to Asia, it was introduced to the United States in 1794. If youre thinking about planting lacebark elm, growing this versatile tree is easy in well-drained soil although it tolerates nearly any type of soil, including clay. Chinese elm bonsai is famous for landscape design. Finally, a common health risk is skin and eye irritation. You have subscribed to: Remember that you can always manage your preferences or unsubscribe through the link at the foot of each newsletter. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. Besides its hardiness, Chinese elm trees have some unique qualities that make them an eye-catching asset of every landscape. Its great shade and privacy provider, but I loathe it. If the elm wood youre looking at has been treated with any kind of chemical, its best to avoid it. She previously owned a landscaping business for 25 years and worked at a local garden center for 10 years. An alternative propagation technique is to take stem cuttings while the plant is still a sapling and root them in water with some type of heat source beneath the water. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'housepoint_net-box-4','ezslot_5',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-housepoint_net-box-4-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'housepoint_net-box-4','ezslot_6',108,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-housepoint_net-box-4-0_1'); .box-4-multi-108{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}6. The cedar elm is a good choice for urban areas because it tolerates pollution, drought, and poor soil. Do you know what Ulmus Parvifolia is? Above that, they have a versatile nature that makes them adaptable to various types of designs. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong in shape with serrated margins. Princeton is perhaps one of the most widely distributed American elm variety in current use, Jefferson is more recent release from the USDA National . A rapid grower, silver maple tends to develop multiple trunks. The Chinese elm develops an upright, round, and graceful, thick canopy that is filled with long arching branches, resulting in a vase-like shape. It was easy to transplant, established itself easily, and grew fast and large enough that it provided shade for the whole street. The tree's trunk has colourful speckled bark with shades of orange, green, and a greyish brown. make it impossible to grow much of anything under them. That gives a very unique and aesthetic appearance to the wood, and the coarse texture makes the wood very conveniently stainable and adaptable to any kind of dyes. But its brittle and has sharp thorns. 1. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of burning elm wood so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not to use it! Yeah, I would probably axe the elm while its easy and cheap. The Chinese elm is extremely valuable as a medicinal plant. Elm trees are members of theUlmusgenus in the Ulmaceae family of plants. Native Area: Lebanon. But its roots can be problematic around house foundations and it releases cottony seeds in late spring/early summer that can be a nuisance if they get caught up in your window screens. The Chinese elm is a tall decorative deciduous tree that provides shade. heres what you can do to keep them from becoming a nuisance. Because of its relatively modest intensity, direct morning sunshine is ideal for practically all bonsai; thus, select a space that receives the most light during the course of the day. Following these tips will help ensure that the elm wood you purchase is good for burning. Our experts are here to help you make gardening Simple. Although elm wood is known as soft hardwood, it is very tough. USDA Growing Zones: 5 to 9. However, it belongs to a fast-growing tree. Kidadl is independent and to make our service free to you the reader we are supported by advertising. We built tables, shelves, a backyard shed, 10' base for a water slide into the pool, 2 story fort playhouse with a fire pole, and so much more. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. It has a vase-shaped habit and fast growth. It is a lovely tree that provide nice shade, but it is also very hardy in adverse conditions tolerating both drought and wet soil. It is usually resistant to Dutch elm disease, which is spread by bark beetles. Chinese elms are a medium-tall group of trees, with an approximate height of 70 ft (21.3 m). This necessitates cutting off young shoots, buds, and short branches. It also bends and holds nails and screws well. Resistant to splitting: Elm wood is highly preferred because of its lightweight and soft nature. Given that he has Chinese ancestors, we can probably assume that the tree was brought over from China by one of his forefathers. As a weak-wooded tree, these trunks can cause problems as the tree matures. Their fast growth and thick canopies make them perfect shade trees to sit and relax under to beat the summer heat. Otherwise, water regularly during spring, summer, and early autumn. NEVER plant this tree in an Urban setting, or around an area with lots of buildings. Avoid wood that has been treated with chemicals 3. Sign up for our newsletter. Siberian elm is also weak-wooded and prone to storm and ice damage. best way to stop invasive plants from taking over your garden. They grow on well-drained soil and require regular pruning. It is considered softer than other hardwood, thus known as soft hardwood.