Golden elm

[molly]

I have a golden elm tree in my garden which was planted about 10 years ago. In all the years it has never looked particularly healthy. It's growing in an open, sunny position with well drained soil. There are no obvious signs of insects or fungus. My worry is that it has Dutch elm disease. Can anyone tell me what are the signs of this, or perhaps give me some other explanation as to what might be wrong with it.

[archbishop]

If you contact the council they should come and check it without charge. Of course you then run the risk of them condemning it, and if it has to be cut down you pay.

[Jenny Tools]

Golden Elm - Ulmus Dicksonii A cross variety of Cornish Elm, if my memory serves me correct not as susceptible to Dutch Elm disease as is the English Elm. The Golden Elm is however a very slow growing variety, check for signs of aphids, leafhoppers or even gall mites. Another problem could be honey fungus, look for this in the soil around the tree.

[molly]

Thanks to Jenny Tools for her answer.It's reasuring to know the golden elm is resistant to dutch elm disease.There does not appear to be any signs of pests and I don't think it's honey fungus as I've not seen the characteristic "bootlaces" in the soil. Also other nearby trees are quite healthy.I think the answer could partly be my ignorance in just how slow growing the tree is,and also I've discovered it needs watering well in dry weather.It doesn't look like it's actually dying, it just has never thrived.

[Jenny Tools]

A few other things that can affect a Golden Elm is they are not very happy in chalky soil, exposed windy or costal areas.

[molly]

Thanks Jenny. I live about 8 miles from the sea. Not sure if that's it, more likely it get quite a lot of wind. We don't live on chalky soil. If anthing, possibly very slightly acidic.Thanks for your help.