A Complete Guide To The American Elm And The Needs For Emergency Tree Service | Fort Worth, TX
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If you’re a homeowner who lives in Texas, you may be wondering which species of trees to plant in your yard or on your property. Many tree surgeons and gardeners recommend planting native species such as the American Elm, Texas Ash, or Texas Cedar. Choosing a native tree will mean that the conditions are right, and you’ll have more success as these trees are suitable for the climate.
If you live in Fort Worth, TX, and are searching for advice about which type of native tree to plant, contact S&P Tree Service. The company can provide an emergency tree service, landscaping, pruning, tree installation, and stump removal.
The American Elm is a tree species native to Texas and grows well in yards across the state. This article will tell you everything you need to know about the American Elm, including when to call in a tree service.
What Is the American Elm?
American elms are very tall trees that are commonly found across Texas and much of America. These trees belong to the Ulmaceae family and grow very large; a fully matured American Elm can reach eighty feet in height. These tall trees have a small spread and are most commonly used to mark the boundaries of land. They are very fast-growing and quick to establish themselves.
American Elms are naturally found growing in low-lying areas and, as they like moist areas, are commonly found growing on the banks of rivers, streams, and waterways. They are generally considered a hardy variety of trees as they are heat and drought tolerant and can thrive in hot or humid climates. These trees grow in direct sun but prefer partial shade; they also grow well in areas of full shade. Landscape gardeners often plant American elms around their yard to create shade for their family and other smaller plants. They are usually found lining streets in urban areas and towns.
American Elm’s produce attractive blooms, which are red and green and flower during the spring months. These trees have green leaves that turn yellow during Fall.
Caring for an American Elm
Texas is located in USDA Zones 6 to 9, which is the perfect environment for growing American Elms. Texas does have diverse climate conditions, but these trees can adapt.
Planting
Before planting American elm trees, it’s best to test the soil’s pH range and adjust it if necessary to suit these trees. American Elms require soil that’s well-drained and rich in nutrients. They also grow well in sandy or clay-like soils.
The pH range should be between 6.8 to 7.2 pH. You may need to lower the pH of the soil by adding ground rock sulfur to the earth. On the other hand, if the pH range is too low, you can add limestone to increase it.
Plant American Elms in an area that has good air circulation as these trees are prone to fungal diseases such as Dutch Elm disease.
Watering
In times of drought, it’s a good idea to water your American Elms. You can soak the earth to a depth of about ten inches.
Pruning
American Elms can be pruned about once every three years. Pruning should be done in the winter when the trees are dormant. You can remove any branches that are dead or damaged. It’s also a good idea to remove branches that cross over one another to give the canopy space to grow.
After pruning, it’s wise to disinfect your tools using isopropyl alcohol. This will help to stop the spread of the fungus Dutch elm disease.
Diseases That Affect American Elms
American Elms are prone to Dutch elm disease, a fungal disease caused by the elm bark beetle. It’s a good idea to treat your trees annually with a spray at the start of the growing season. Dutch Elm Disease can spread quickly and often proves to be deadly, so it’s beneficial to take care of your American Elms.
Dutch Elm disease affects all types of elm trees and causes their leaves to become wilted. If you notice leaves curling on the main upper branches, dutch elm disease may be to blame. Eventually, the leaves will begin to turn yellow and branches, and ultimately, the whole tree will die if not treated.
American Elms are also affected by scale, which causes black mold to grow on the bark. You can treat your trees in the Spring or Fall every two or three years for this condition. Trees with scale have a thin and unhealthy-looking canopy. You can call on the help of an emergency tree service if you notice any insect infestations or fungal disease. It’s wise to treat your trees as soon as possible before they die.
When would I need to call an mergency tree service?
Like all trees, American Elms can suffer from storm damage. If your tree has branches that are unstable or looks like it’s likely to fall, call an emergency tree service. Don’t approach the tree and keep your family and pets away from the area. A tree service will be able to assess the situation and decide whether tree removal is necessary.
Other common reasons homeowners call on the help of an emergency tree service include:
- Rotten and dead trees.
- Trees make creaking noises or seem unstable.
- Trees affected by insect infestation or fungal infection.
S&P Tree Service, Emergency Tree Service, Fort Worth, TX
If you’re a homeowner that’s planning to plant American Elms on your property or need advice about which tree varieties would suit Texas, don’t hesitate to contact S&P Tree Service. The company provides tree planting, landscaping, pruning, tree and stump removal, and an emergency tree service.
S&P Tree Service is family-owned and operated who employs a highly-skilled workforce. They offer all types of tree care services to residential and commercial properties, including an emergency tree service.
If you live in Fort Worth, TX, or the surrounding area and are searching for an emergency tree service, don’t hesitate to contact S&P Tree Service on 469-789-6775