Pollination Info for St. Croix American Elm (Ulmus americana 'St Croix')

The St. Croix American Elm (Ulmus americana 'St Croix') is a self-sterile tree, which means it requires cross-pollination to produce viable seeds. The tree belongs to the Ulmaceae family, and it typically blooms in early spring, producing small, greenish-yellow flowers that are not very showy.

The St. Croix American Elm can be pollinated by wind or insects such as bees. However, wind pollination is more common, as the tree produces a large amount of pollen that can easily be carried by the wind to other trees.

To ensure good pollination, it is recommended to plant multiple St. Croix American Elm trees near each other or in close proximity to other American elm trees. This will increase the chances of cross-pollination and improve the production of viable seeds.

It is important to note that the St. Croix American Elm is highly susceptible to Dutch elm disease, which is a fungal disease that is spread by bark beetles. To prevent the spread of Dutch elm disease, it is recommended to prune infected branches and remove infected trees as soon as possible.

St. Croix American Elm (Ulmus americana 'St Croix') FAQ

1. What is St. Croix American Elm?

St. Croix American Elm is a hybrid cultivar of the American Elm tree (Ulmus americana). It was developed in response to the Dutch Elm Disease epidemic, which devastated populations of American Elm trees throughout the United States in the mid-twentieth century. St. Croix American Elm is resistant to Dutch Elm Disease and is a popular choice for planting in urban and suburban settings.

2. What are the characteristics of St. Croix American Elm?

St. Croix American Elm trees are tall, with a height of up to 80 feet at maturity. They have a broad, vase-shaped canopy and can reach a width of up to 60 feet. The bark is grayish-brown and deeply furrowed. The leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and slightly serrated along the edges. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers in the spring, which give way to winged seeds in the fall.

3. What are the growing requirements for St. Croix American Elm?

St. Croix American Elm trees prefer full sun to partial shade and require well-draining soil. They are tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. The tree has a moderate growth rate and should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth. Once established, St. Croix American Elm trees are drought tolerant and require minimal care.

4. What are the benefits of planting St. Croix American Elm?

St. Croix American Elm trees are highly valued for their beauty and their ability to thrive in urban and suburban settings. The tree provides shade, which can help to lower cooling costs in the summer months. St. Croix American Elm is also resistant to Dutch Elm Disease, which has devastated populations of American Elm trees throughout the United States.

5. What are the potential problems associated with St. Croix American Elm?

Like all trees, St. Croix American Elm is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. However, the tree is resistant to Dutch Elm Disease, which is one of the major threats to American Elm trees in the United States. St. Croix American Elm may also be affected by elm leaf beetle, a common pest of elm trees. The tree is also vulnerable to damage from wind and ice storms due to its large size and broad canopy.

6. What is the maintenance required for St. Croix American Elm?

St. Croix American Elm trees require minimal maintenance once established. However, young trees should be watered regularly during the first few years of growth to promote healthy root development. The tree may also benefit from fertilization in the early spring. Pruning may be necessary to remove damaged or dead branches, but should be done sparingly to avoid damaging the canopy.

7. Where can I buy St. Croix American Elm?

St. Croix American Elm can be purchased from a variety of nurseries and garden centers. It is important to purchase trees from a reputable source to ensure that they are disease-free and of high quality.

Planting & Care for St. Croix American Elm (Ulmus americana 'St Croix')

Planting

• Choose a planting location with well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
• Plant in early spring or fall when the tree is dormant.
• Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and as deep as the root ball.
• Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, tamping down gently to remove air pockets.
• Water thoroughly after planting.

Care

• Water deeply once a week during the growing season, more frequently during hot, dry weather.
• Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
• Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to remove any dead or diseased branches.
• Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and control weeds.
• Monitor for pests and diseases and take appropriate action if needed.
• Stake the tree if necessary to prevent it from bending or toppling in high winds.

With proper planting and care, St. Croix American Elm can grow up to 80 feet tall and have a spread of up to 60 feet. It is highly resistant to Dutch Elm Disease and is a great choice for urban and suburban landscapes.