Overwintering Chinese Elms ... :)

JasonG

Yes, I have searched the site for overwintering articles ... they are all fantastic. I thought I'd ask some specific information on my environment though.

I live in Michigan, in an Apartment. The winters get really cold here ... I have 2 elms that I need to overwinter on my balcony (rather small, 9 feet wide by 5 feet deep).

Should I put them in some sort of insulated box? Do they need to see the sun? How often do they need water?

Thanks

Jason

Advertisement

Jay

Jason, can you be more specific. There are various Chinese Elms, with differing abilities to withstand the cold. I have had several cork bark and 'plain' (if that is the correct way to put it) and they are all at this moment just starting to show color. This year I obtained frosty Chinese Elm and it appears to be more cold sensitive.

Do you know which type you have?

Jay

__________________
A Bonsai student living with his trees at N 44.37 W 77.49...
Think before you act... then think again... no good comes from rushing

JasonG

Thanks for your response.

Here is a picture of the leaves ...

Jason

Attached Images

elmleaves.jpg (60.8 KB, 140 views)

JasonG

Anyone? We've gotten our first snow, and I'm worried the tree will die if I don't overwinter it soon.

Jason

Jay

Hi Jason, I know we have not seen any suggestions from the more knowledgeable, so I will give you what I know. I remind you that I have overwintered chinese elms for two years and have some knowledge for a novice.

You say you need to overwinter on your balcony. Here is what I suggest. You are looking to protect the trees from the wind. during winter they can dry out quickly with the winds, now I'm talking about the tree not the roots and soil. If you can get a box, styrofoam or just plan wood will do. Make sure there are some drainage wholes so any water will not stand. Place some mulch at the bottom of the box, then put the tree or trees if the box if it is big enough. mulch all around the tree up to a little over the soil line. Cover the box, but not tight. Light is not an issue during winter but some is good. if it snows fill the box with snow, it will insulate the tree and also water it as it melts...remember the holes in the bottom of the box. keep the box up against the slider glass door or uyp against the building. There will be some heat leakage, there always is. The heat will moderate the freezing temps.

Now if you have a friend that has an unheated garage, that would be better, still do the box and mulch .. add the snow also but the garage will moderate the temps and help somewhat. You are in a slightly colder climate than I (5b/6a) but should be able to get away with this type of protection.

Good Luck..
Jay

__________________
A Bonsai student living with his trees at N 44.37 W 77.49...
Think before you act... then think again... no good comes from rushing