Trying to figure out what's happening with this Chinese Elm

mikewhite85 · Sep 13, 2011

Looked at this elm yesterday. It is in a reasonably well watered lawn (but not too much), the roots appear to look normal (dug around the trunk a little bit- don't think its root rot), no recent construction or anything of the sort.

The tree has had a considerable amount of deadwood (uniform throughout the tree, not primarily at the top), most of which was recently removed by the HO's lawn guy who climbed it with spikes. The tree is becoming increasingly thin and much of the foliage appears to be drying out. There does not appear to be evidence of borers as Chinese Elms are cultivars highly resistant to dutch elm (though I have read it is possible). There are also a couple wounds in the trunk as one picture demonstrates. Undoubtedly its something going on with the vascular system. Wonder if you guys could give me some help or point me in the right direction. I would love to try to save the tree. Thanks!

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Zale · Sep 13, 2011

I would guess girdling roots. The second picture indicates lack of root flare. I would excavate more soil from around the base. The other 2 pictures didn't show a lot.

mikewhite85 · Sep 14, 2011

Thanks. I will dig around a little more on Mon or Tues. Could have been planted too deep too.

Loraxguy · Sep 15, 2011

elm

It certainly appears the tree has had it's roots covered to deep. This could have happen years ago with change of grade fill dirt being brought in. Trees sometimes takes decades to finally decline in health because of this, and I think your finally seeing issue above ground in the crown of the tree, the tree has actually been declining in health for a number of years