Chinese Elm - A Foliage Losing Cycle?

garywilkes

Hi all,

Have a question someone might be able to help me with. I have a Chinese Elm over wintering in a coolish South facing window of a kitchen at about 11-20 degrees C.

I've noticed a pattern with this tree whereby it will develop a whole load of nice new leaves. Then shortly after most of them will drop off for no reason I can see.

Has anyone come across this pattern of behaviour before? Do you kind folks think it might be the temperature. Would the tree be better suited in a warmer room?

Thanks in advance all and Happy New Year!

Gary

Surrey John · Posted: Mon Jan 01, 2007 7:06 pm Post subject: A Foliage Losing Cycle?

Gary - as the proud owner of one Chinese Elm, but an avid reader of this site, may I be the first to advise you that the Chinese Elm is very very definitely an OUTDOOR tree? Indoors = debility. I'm sure others will come up with further appropriate advice!

Regards, SJ.

imholte

Yes elms are outdoor trees. They need a dormant period each year in order to survive the taxing spring coming up, it needs to rest.

Possibly your trees is getting cold enough to lose leaves but not cold enough to keep it dormant therefore causing it to grow new leaves.

I would proptly put it outside and leave it there. It will be fine and will reward you with greener, stronger, and more vigours growth
. Leave it out in the summer too, it it an outdoor tree.

Good luck

garywilkes

Thanks folks. I have two of these trees and they're both now outside. I was aware they were outdoor varieties but I was concerned about the frost getting to them.

Gary

steve

Many people worry that frost and other lesser weather conditions are a threat to their tree. They are, in fact, crucial to their survival as they help complete the natural cycles the trees need to live. Extreme weather conditions are a different story but it doesn't sound like you guys are having much of a winter there.

garywilkes

You're right Steve, its kind of mild at the moment. I guess I just worry about losing my pride and joy Wink

I also have a Serissa Foetida and a Sageritia Theezans indoors. Do you folks recommend putting them out too?

Thanks again for all your kind comments.

Gary

steve

No keep them inside but near plenty of light and with humidity trays.

Dick

Serissas and sageretias are indoor trees.

Take a look at the A-Z forum if you're a fully registered member (highly recommended) and you'll find out very useful information concerning this/.

TB420

These guy's will not lead you astray. You are in good hands.

Tom