Field Elm
ulmus minor
Also known as: ["Field Elm","Small-leaved Elm"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Europe and Asia, known for its tolerance to various soil conditions and resistance to Dutch elm disease compared to other elm species.
Benefits & Perks
["shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Genus: | Ulmus |
| Botanical Name: | Ulmus minor |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor planting in open spaces, parks, or large gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–20 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates clay but prefers improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; focus on selective branch removal rather than heavy reduction.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight in cooler climates, partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Provide shade during peak summer heat, especially in southern regions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Monitor leaf color for sun stress, adjust placement seasonally, use shade cloth if needed.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
deep, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Test soil pH annually, amend clay soils with organic matter, ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates cold winters and moderate summers. Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C) for optimal growth.
Protect from late spring frosts, water deeply before cold snaps, avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in autumn and winter
Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent root burn; fertilize only when actively growing; water well after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer or seed propagation in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds after collection.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sandy loam for cuttings; well-drained seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is beneficial for cuttings but not essential.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seeds germinate in 2–4 weeks with stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, misting system, heating mat.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent material, maintain consistent moisture, avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to remove entire branches back to the trunk or main branch; heading cuts to shorten branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or crossing branches to improve structure and air circulation; shape as needed.
Tools
Hand pruners, loppers, pruning saw, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during dormancy, remove dead/diseased wood first, make clean cuts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter for young trees; mature trees may stay in the same container with soil refresh.
Method
Remove soil gently, trim roots if necessary, repot in fresh well-draining soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot young trees every 2–3 years to refresh soil and encourage growth; mature trees may not need repotting unless root-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water well, place in shade for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the trunk, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve structure; incorporate sand or perlite for drainage in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, dieback in prolonged cold, reduced growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop, twigs can die back, and growth halts in temperatures below -20°F (-29°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base, wrap trunks with burlap in severe winters, and avoid planting in frost pockets.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, and premature leaf drop during prolonged heat waves above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering, and use reflective mulch to reduce soil temperature.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use correct dilution, water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a nitrogen-rich formula after pruning in late winter if needed.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicUlmus minor is not considered toxic to cats. Ingestion of its seeds or bark does not typically cause adverse effects in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicUlmus minor is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of its seeds or bark does not typically cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicUlmus minor, commonly known as the field elm, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingestion of its seeds or bark.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ulmus minor resistant to Dutch elm disease?
A: It has some resistance, but not complete immunity.
Q: What are the typical uses of Field Elm?
A: It is used for landscaping, timber, and as a wildlife habitat.
Q: How tall does Ulmus minor grow?
A: It typically reaches 20–30 meters in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ulmaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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