Siberian Elm is an invasive, non-native tree that grows up to 60 feet tall. Its leaves grow alternately, and are 1-2 inches long, elliptic, toothed, and pointed at the tip. The bark is dark gray, but often has whitish streaks or staining. It reproduces quickly, especially in disturbed areas, and out-competes native trees by producing many clusters of small, round seeds that are easily spread by wind. This invasive tree was brought from eastern Asia, and widely planted for its resistance to Dutch elm disease and quick growth, often used as a windbreak tree. It has spread across the Eastern United States and into Ontario, Canada. Siberian Elm has been known to hybridize with the native Slippery Elm.
Control methods for Siberian elm:
- Pulling: Best done when trees are small - 1” in diameter or less.
- Cutting and herbicide treatment: Best used on large trees in the fall, but can be done any time after spring sap flow ceases. Cut trees close to the ground, and immediately treat the stump with herbicide.
- Herbicide alternatives: Cut stumps can also be covered using a Buckthorn Baggie, other dark-colored plastic bag, or similar alternative when herbicide use is not desirable. Please make sure your bag or alternative is tightly secured to the stump, and fanned out at the bottom to catch any new shoots. Leave the bag on the stump for a minimum of one year, and then remember to remove!
If you are unable to do the work of removal yourself, there are native restoration companies that perform removal and treatment as well.