Camperdown Elm Ulmus glabra 'Camperdownii'

Water

The Camperdown Elm should be watered deeply and thoroughly once a week during dry periods, allowing the water to penetrate the soil to a depth of several inches. Younger trees benefit from about 15-20 gallons of water, whereas mature trees might require around 50 gallons to ensure appropriate hydration of the root zone. It's important to avoid overwatering and to adjust the frequency based on rainfall; during times of heavy rain, supplementary watering may not be necessary. Soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging and potential root rot.

Light

The Camperdown Elm thrives best in full sun to partial shade; an ideal spot would be one where it receives at least four hours of direct sunlight each day but is also shielded from the harsh afternoon sun. This elm can also tolerate light shade, but its growth may be less vigorous and its canopy not as dense.

Temperature

The Camperdown Elm is hardy and can handle a wide temperature range, with its preferred temperatures being between 50°F and 70°F. It is able to withstand a maximum temperature as high as around 90°F and can survive cold winters down to at least -20°F to -30°F. Sudden extreme temperature changes should be avoided to maintain the tree's health.

Pruning

Prune the Camperdown Elm to remove any dead or broken branches, maintain its shape, and improve air circulation within the canopy. Pruning should be carried out in late winter or early spring before the sap begins to flow. It is advisable to prune this tree every 1-3 years, depending on its growth and structural needs. Always use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just outside the branch collar without leaving a stub.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Camperdown Elm thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 7.0. The best soil mix would contain loamy soil, compost, and sand to ensure adequate drainage and fertility. Mulching is recommended to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

Repotting

The Camperdown Elm, being a large tree, is not typically repotted. Instead, it is planted outdoors where it has space to grow. Transplanting should only be done when necessary, and the tree prefers to remain in one location once established.

Humidity & Misting

The Camperdown Elm is adaptable to a wide range of humidity levels outdoor and does not require specific humidity conditions. However, it benefits from the ambient humidity present in most outdoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Growing Camperdown Elm indoors is impractical due to its size.

• Outdoor

  Plant Camperdown Elm in full sun/partial shade and ensure ample growing space.

• Hardiness zone

  5-7 USDA

Life cycle

The Camperdown Elm, Ulmus glabra 'Camperdownii', begins its life cycle with seed germination, occurring when conditions of moisture and temperature are favorable. Seedlings emerge and grow, establishing a strong root system and beginning vegetative growth with characteristic broad, ovate, and toothed leaves. With proper care, the tree reaches maturity in several years, developing into its notable weeping form due to the genetic mutation of the parent Ulmus glabra, creating a distinctive canopy. Throughout its adult life, the Camperdown Elm undergoes cycles of leaf production in spring, flowering in early spring before the leaves appear, followed by seed set and dispersal, if pollinators such as wind or insects facilitate the process. In the autumn, leaves turn yellow before dropping, signaling the tree's preparation for the dormant winter phase. This cycle of growth and dormancy repeats annually, with the tree potentially living for several decades if not affected by diseases like Dutch Elm Disease or environmental stressors.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Late winter

• The Camperdown Elm, known scientifically as Ulmus glabra 'Camperdownii', can be most effectively propagated by the method of grafting, which is typically done during late winter before the sap begins to flow. Grafting involves taking a scion, which is a cutting from a mature Camperdown Elm, and attaching it to the rootstock of a compatible Elm species. The scion should ideally be about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long and have several buds. It is carefully joined to a similarly sized cut on the rootstock, making sure the cambium layers (the growth tissue layer) of both the scion and the rootstock are in contact. The graft is then wrapped and sealed to prevent drying and infection while the union heals and the scion starts to grow, inheriting the distinctive weeping habit of the parent tree.