Care Instructions
Plant in early spring or fall in a full sun to partial shade site with moist, well-drained soil; amend heavy clay with organic matter for best results. Water deeply weekly during the first year to establish roots, then taper to moderate levels, supplementing during prolonged dry spells. Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk to prevent rot. Prune in late winter to shape the canopy, remove crossing branches, or raise the lower limbs for clearance—avoid summer cuts to minimize disease risk. Fertilize sparingly with a balanced slow-release formula in spring if growth is slow. Monitor for elm leaf beetle or borers, treating only if defoliation exceeds 20%; its resistances keep interventions rare. Propagate via root cuttings or grafting for clones.