HuSo wrote in a PM:
Well, I just got it this evening as a present from my girlfriend and I want to take very good care of it... But it seems far more difficult then I could imagine...
As i understood it is better the humidity than to be in dry place,thats why put it outside because the humidity it is pretty high today.I want to water it because it is very dry now,but i don't know how and how much it is good?
As well if you can take a look a the picture because I'm not sure what i am supposed to do?
https://img257.imageshack.us/my.php?image=p9170143vt0.jpg
It seems that the roots are going outside of the soil a bit: is it normal?
On the right side you can see one branch touching the soil,as well can u tell me about the "naked"branches"? Should I leave them and if not how to take care of them?
If you have any other advice or remarks i will be glad if you let me know...
Well, I just got it this evening as a present from my girlfriend and I want to take very good care of it... But it seems far more difficult then I could imagine.
It might seem daunting at first but you can do this. The first thing to do is learn to mange it on a horticultural level, the artistic elements can come later.
As i understood it is better the humidity than to be in dry place,thats why put it outside because the humidity it is pretty high today.
I think this is a good move, it is much easier to allow nature to do as much work as possible. If you were to keep it indoors much more of the trees needs will need to be met by you.
I want to water it because it is very dry now,but i don't know how and how much it is good?
Read the sticky thread/s located at the top of the forum for watering tips. In a nutshell, always water thoroughly but then wait until the soil approaches dryness before repeating. A little water often is the wrong approach.
It seems that the roots are going outside of the soil a bit: is it normal?
It's hard to tell from that photo but I don't see anything that seems to be a problem. In fact exposed roots (larger ones, not fine ones) are often encouraged in order to give the impression of age and stability. Google the term 'nebari' to see what I mean. The soil itself, as Alex alluded to, is another matter. Next spring will be a good time to re-pot it in a proper, free draining, medium. Make sure to read the 'soil' and 're-potting' sticky threads as well.
On the right side you can see one branch touching the soil,as well can u tell me about the "naked"branches"? Should I leave them and if not how to take care of them?
You can trim any dead material off but I would not do much beyond that for now.
After the obvious, watering and basic care your next hurdle will be getting it through the first winter. Can you describe your climate? I keep my Elms in an unheated garage for about 4 months from about December through March.
Norm
And is that 'potting soil' it is in?