Collecting an Elm

Yandrosxx

I noticed this tree some months ago on my morning commute. So, this morning I decided to investigate. Much to my surprise, it's a pretty nice elm.

But, on closer inspection, it appears to be a sucker that grew from an exposed root system. You can see the main root extending from either side of its base in the pictures below.

I intend to air layer it. And was wondering should I air layer it where it meets the main root, or should I air layer the main root on either side? Should I air layer the base and then cut the main root?

My thought, if successful, is to eventually train it as a cascade or semi cascade. Anyone think I'm seeing it wrong?

Attached Images

	Elm1(Edit).jpg (69.6 KB, 84 views)
	Elm2(Edit).jpg (69.8 KB, 61 views)
	Elm3(Edit).jpg (69.6 KB, 89 views)
	Elm4(Edit).jpg (68.1 KB, 56 views)

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BunjinEnt

Hmm. tough call. First, are there any feeder roots coming out of that main root in support of the sucker? If there are, maybe you can get away with digging it up. then you have nice nebari on the sides but it looks as though no (few) roots on the other two sides. If you layer from the root "sides" you still have a lag in nebari development on the other two sides. But if you air layer it right above "the root" then you could have an even start in nebari development. In any case, you'll have to find a way to disguise the layer(s) so passersby don't mess with it for the couple months or so it is cooking.
I think if it were me, I would maybe try a Ground Layer on the exposed roots to see if I could get other roots to shoot in a season, then sever it from the main root after dormancy.
Cool find, though! Glad to see others check out trees along the side of the road and in landscapes...phew its not just me...

-Wm

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Yandrosxx

It stands out and is very hard to miss, but fortunately it's on a rock ledge. So, it's very hard to get to. I doubt anyone else will make the effort.

2099euan

It looks really nice, shame it's a sucker. Just get yourself a crane and a big truck and collect the main tree as well, then you would have two for the price of one!!

Yandrosxx

I suspect an air layer done properly will be succesful. I'm looking for some thoughts on how to better the chances.

Yandrosxx

I suspect an air layer done properly will be succesful. I'm looking for some thoughts on how to better the chances.

BunjinEnt

Elms are REALLY easy to layer. I did mine using the skirt technique, Hormex #3, wet sphagnum, plastic sheeting and zip ties. I did the layer first week of March and I see roots already. Just waiting for the bag to fill up and some of the roots to turn brown and harden off. If your question is to where to put the layer for better success, I would go with the bottom of the trunk of the sucker just up from where it joins with the root. That way you are only dealing with one layer and you know you are ONLY dealing with the flow from the leaves of THAT tree. I have been putting black coated metal screen over the layers that I don't have complete control over. Acts kind of like camo, but also makes it tough for the casual passerby to open it up (or any other minor freak accident from opening it up).

-Wm

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jeremy_norbury

I'm not convinced this is particularly good stock or even worth the effort. It neither has decent nebari nor a particularly interesting or usable trunk line.

But, if you are convinced you want it - I'd just dig the bugger up. I wouldn't be concerend about how much root you get; it's an Elm after all and they can take huge abuse and will grow any roots that are missing. I'd ALSO trunk chop it while I was at it. It's an Elm...

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Yandrosxx

Wow Jeremy. Are you that comfortable with that approach for any Elm. I know they are vigorous as I have several already, but . . .

I normally wouldn't consider that approach unless I was dealing with a Willow, Wisteria, etc.

Nevertheless, I do think there may be something to the notion of cutting off the main root on each end and lifting because I do think it has rooted to some extent where it meats the ground in that area. I would likely come up with some feeder roots if I did that, but I'd still have a T at the end.

Are you kidding! I love the trunk line. Oh well. To each his own.