Requesting advice on how to try to replant a storm-uprooted elm tree. - Ask Extension
The recent President's Day Storm blew down an elm tree in my back yard which had been planted approximately 8 years ago. It had reached approximately ...
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Requesting advice on how to try to replant a storm-uprooted elm tree. #925309
Asked March 02, 2026, 3:53 PM EST
The recent President's Day Storm blew down an elm tree in my back yard which had been planted approximately 8 years ago. It had reached approximately 20' in height and was beginning to provide good shade to a relatively treeless backyard. The exposed rootball reveals that it had been planted with an apparently synthetic burlap wrap that has not rotted at all, seemingly constricting root growth on the side that gave way, although there are 3+" thick roots extending in the opposite direction. I'd like to attempt to replant the tree in its upright position. I've piled snow on the rootball to maintain moisture and will remove the burlap.
Should I trim the branches before replanting, and if so how extensively?
Thanks for your help.
Sussex County Delaware
Expert Response
Trim any damaged branches to prevent disease, trying not to leave stubs. You may also find suckers, especially on the side of the tree that contained the burlap, that should be removed.
I would be more concerned with the status of the roots on the side that came out of the ground. if they are encircling the tree, they would need to be straightened out or pruned. Otherwise, they will continue to circle the tree and eventually girdle other roots.
The tree will also need to be staked on the windward side, preferably with 2 stakes and loose webbing that will still allow the tree to move.
Watering this spring and summer will need to be 10 gallons per week, long and deep to promote root growth.
Do not fertilize the tree this year as that will promote top heavy growth
Drastic pruning is not necessary as the tree will need the leaves to photosynthesize and make food. You may need to do some additional pruning if certain branches don't leaf out. It is hard to tell what additional pruning is necessary in this position.
You can contact the Urban Community & Forestry Group for an on-site assessment.
Contact Us - Delaware Department of Agriculture - State of Delaware
I would be more concerned with the status of the roots on the side that came out of the ground. if they are encircling the tree, they would need to be straightened out or pruned. Otherwise, they will continue to circle the tree and eventually girdle other roots.
The tree will also need to be staked on the windward side, preferably with 2 stakes and loose webbing that will still allow the tree to move.
Watering this spring and summer will need to be 10 gallons per week, long and deep to promote root growth.
Do not fertilize the tree this year as that will promote top heavy growth
Drastic pruning is not necessary as the tree will need the leaves to photosynthesize and make food. You may need to do some additional pruning if certain branches don't leaf out. It is hard to tell what additional pruning is necessary in this position.
You can contact the Urban Community & Forestry Group for an on-site assessment.
Contact Us - Delaware Department of Agriculture - State of Delaware
