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Well, where is the new shoot of a golden elm suddenly coming from? If, quite unexpectedly, small golden elms grow out of the ground, this is probably an offshoot of the existing deciduous tree that is now encroaching on the earth's surface. The young shoots are not always a blessing, as removing them takes a lot of work. Here you can find out how to properly deal with the foothills of the golden elm.
If new golden elms shoot out of the ground everywhere, there is a spur behind them
The extensive root system of the golden elm
The crown of the golden elm can reach dimensions of 5-10 meters. The subterranean root system, however, surpasses this already very astonishing growth rate many times over. Golden elms are known for their strong formation of runners. The growth below the surface of the earth can be recognized by new shoots appearing at a distance from the trunk. They are a grudge to many a gardener, at least when they get out into the open air in flower beds or lift paving stones.
Anyone who then tries to inhibit the formation of foothills by cutting back the golden elm causes the exact opposite. If you look at the dimensions of the root of the plant, the actual tree remains just a part of the growth. The roots provide nutrients and keep the tree alive. There must always be a balanced relationship between above- and below-ground plant parts. If you now shorten the upper part, the golden elm compensates for the loss by spreading further underground.
Remove root suckers
Simply pull the shoot out of the ground, cut through the roots and hope that no new offshoots form? Unfortunately, it is not that easy to keep the foothills formation in check. You're more likely to succeed with the following guide:
- trace the spur back to the trunk
- dig up the entire spur
- be careful not to damage the main root
A rhizome barrier has a double benefit
In addition, it is advisable to mount a rhizome barrier. This will curb the formation of foothills for a certain period of time. At the same time, this barrier protects against vermin.
- dig a 1m deep hole near the roots
- place a root barrier (a special foil from specialist shops) around the root ball
- backfill the trench with earth
Use the foothills of the golden elm
Instead of throwing away the cut off runners, you can also use them to propagate your golden elm. However, sufficient roots must already have formed for this.