Allee of Elms - Creating a Princeton Elm Allee

Scripps College in California

with a planting of 8" Princeton

American Elms to recreate

the lost Allee they once had

for many graduating classes!

Did you ever wonder how those beautiful Allee of trees where created? People with a lot of for sight wanted to create the classical European Cathedral look to the landscape and cities they lived in. This was typical during the 1800's as cities poped up and streets and towns where developed. They needed trees that would grow fast and transplant easy and give them the overhanging canopy look. The American Elm fit this need and was used extensively. This practice has been going on until the early 60's.

Princeton American Elms

Along Washington Road

In NJ, on the way to

Princeton University Planted 1920's

When DED (Dutch Elm Disease) entered into the US around 1933, millions of American elms where killed. This spread throughout the US and by the 1960's people moved away from the Elms and started planting Ash, Oak and Maples. These trees too had their problems. They did not transplant well, slow growers or did not have the classical American elm look like the Princeton elm did.

Typical Street Planting

of American Elms.

Notice how close to the sidewalk

the trees can be planted.

This is attest to their deep

root systems.

Today as the American Elm is returning to the landscape due to propagation techniques and DED resistance, many street scapes are being replanted with the American Elm. With trees like the Ash being eliminated by emerald ash bore, the American Elm is getting looked at again. If you have thought about your community or property getting involved in the Return of the American Elm, then try the Princeton Elms. You will not be unhappy and with the fast growth rate, you will not have to wait to possible see an Allee of elms in your lifetime.