Journal: Chinese Elm

September 29, 2025 — Seed

The origin of this Chinese elm: a seed, nothing more.

July 14, 2026 — First cut

Almost a year later, the seedling already has its main ramification formed. Today it got its first cut, at the fourth leaf pair — the first act of design on a tree that, until now, had only grown free.

This is where the slow part begins.

October 10, 2026 — Three months later

Three months after the first cut, the elm has kept growing: the branching that began in July is now clearly there, and the tips are pushing fresh, lighter leaves. Same volcanic rock and pumice mix, same pot — nothing rushed.

The photo at the top of this page is from today.