How Do You Prune an American Elm Tree

Pruning Elm Trees Safely. Prune only during the early spring to prevent elm bark beetles. Many experts claim that the scent of pruned elm bark attracts beetles, which can carry Dutch Elm Disease. Only trim your elm tree in the early spring, preferably before March 31st if you live in the Northern Hemisphere.

When should elm trees be pruned?

Pruning Elm Trees Safely. Prune only during the early spring to prevent elm bark beetles. Many experts claim that the scent of pruned elm bark attracts beetles, which can carry Dutch Elm Disease. Only trim your elm tree in the early spring, preferably before March 31st if you live in the Northern Hemisphere.

How do you take care of an American elm tree?

Keep the tree healthy by removing dead, diseased or broken branches in fall, keeping it well watered, and fed regularly. Protect young trees from elm beetles and deer browsing. You can plant American elms in lawn areas, abandoned meadows or as street trees. They make good shade trees.