Brandon Elm (Ulmus americana ‘Brandon’ / ‘Patmore’) Care Guide
Overview:
‘Brandon’ is a Canadian selection of the American Elm, developed for more compact form and better suitability to cold climates.
It retains many traits of the species, but with a somewhat tighter, more upright habit.
Because it is still Ulmus americana, it carries many of the same strengths and vulnerabilities of American elms.
1. Planting & Growing Conditions
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Hardiness Zone: Tolerates down to Zone 3 in cold-climate regions.
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Light Requirements: Full sun for best growth and form; tolerates some light shade.
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Soil:
• Prefers moist, well-drained soils but is adaptable to a variety of soil textures (loam, clay, etc.).
• Can tolerate occasional wet or drier conditions once established. -
Adaptability: Brandon Elm is noted to be salt and drought tolerant once established.
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Placement & Spacing: Give room for its mature canopy and roots. Avoid planting too close to structures or under low wires.
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Sunscald / Trunk Protection: In younger trees, fluctuating winter temperatures may cause sunscald damage (cracking) on the trunk. Protective wraps in late fall may help.
2. Watering & Establishment
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For the first 1–2 growing seasons, keep root zone consistently moist (but not saturated) as roots establish.
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After establishment, the tree is more tolerant—but supplemental watering during dry spells helps maintain health and growth.
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Use deep watering to encourage deep root growth rather than frequent shallow watering.
3. Fertilizing
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In early spring, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if soil is low in nutrients.
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Avoid over-fertilizing, especially with high nitrogen, which can cause excessive soft growth that is more vulnerable.
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A soil test can help decide whether fertilization is needed.
4. Pruning & Maintenance
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Pruning Time: Late winter to early spring (dormant period) is ideal.
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How to Prune:
• Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
• Thin the canopy to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Maintain a strong central leader structure and avoid weak branch angles.
• Do not prune heavily into old wood—elm wood is less likely to regenerate from deep cuts.
• Avoid pruning during the active season because pruning wounds can attract elm bark beetles, which spread Dutch Elm Disease.
5. Pests & Diseases
Because Brandon is still American Elm, it carries susceptibility to the same pests and diseases:
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Dutch Elm Disease (DED): A major threat. Bark beetles carry the fungal pathogen. Vigilance, early detection, and prompt removal of infected wood are crucial.
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Elm Leaf Beetles, Japanese Beetles, Scale, Bark Beetles: These are common pests of Ulmus species.
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Verticillium Wilt, Elm Yellows, Cankers, Leaf Spot Diseases: Other diseases that can affect elms.
Management Tips:
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Maintain tree vigor via good cultural care (proper watering, pruning, soil health).
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Remove and dispose of any dead or diseased wood promptly (don’t leave it near healthy trees).
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Monitor regularly for signs of decline, bark beetle activity, wilting, or canopy thinning.
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Consider disease-resistant elm cultivars in mixed plantings to reduce total risk.
