How to Grow American Beech Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

American beech tree is a plant that is native to North America. This tree is known for its smooth, silver-grey bark and its leaves which are simple and ovate with serrated margins. The american beech tree is a popular choice for landscaping because of its elegant appearance. This tree is also very easy to care for and is tolerant of a wide range of conditions.

How to Grow American Beech Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Popular name

  • Fagus grandifolia
  • American beech
  • Common beech
  • European beech
  • Copper beech

Good to Know

  • The American beech tree is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 120 feet tall.
  • The tree has a smooth, grayish-brown bark that becomes darker with age.
  • The American beech tree is found in the eastern United States and Canada.
  • The tree blooms in late spring with small, greenish-yellow flowers.
  • The fruits of the American beech tree are brown, nut-like seeds that are encased in a spiny husk.
  • The American beech tree is an important food source for many animals, including squirrels, deer, and bears.
  • The wood of the American beech tree is hard and strong, making it valuable for furniture and flooring.
  • The leaves of the American beech tree turn a golden-yellow color in the fall.
  • The American beech tree is susceptible to a disease called beech bark disease, which can kill the tree.
  • The American beech tree is the state tree of New Hampshire.

Related plant:
Brunfelsia Americana

Planting Process

  1. For american beech tree, first step is to find the planting site. It is best to plant the tree in early spring or in late fall. The tree should be planted in an area that receives full sun.
  2. The second step is to dig a hole that is twice the width and the same depth as the tree’s root ball.
  3. The third step is to place the tree in the hole and backfill it with soil.
  4. The fourth step is to water the tree deeply immediately after planting.
  5. The fifth step is to apply a layer of mulch around the tree. This will help to keep the roots moist and protected.
  6. The sixth step is to water the tree regularly during the first growing season.
  7. The seventh step is to fertilize the tree in late spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  8. The eighth step is to prune the tree during the late winter or early spring.
  9. The ninth step is to monitor the tree for pests and diseases.
  10. The tenth and final step is to enjoy the beautiful american beech tree in your landscape!

Related plant:
Ceanothus Americanus

Considering the Soil

About soil condition, American beech tree prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils, but it is tolerant of a range of soil conditions. It does not do well in drought conditions or in overly wet soils.

About light

Just like other trees, American beech trees need sunlight to grow. They can grow in partial sun, but they need at least four hours of direct sunlight each day to reach their full potential. Too much shade will prevent them from getting the sunlight they need and could cause them to become stunted or even die.

Good Temperature

The temperature condition of the American beech tree is the most important factor in its growth. The tree grows best in a temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit, but can also tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The tree is quite tolerant of cold temperatures and can even survive in areas where the temperature dips below freezing. However, the tree does not tolerate heat well and will not grow in areas where the temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Ideal Humidity

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50% or less. During the winter, the plant will tolerate a slightly higher humidity level, but any more than that and the plant will start to experience problems. If the humidity level gets too high, the plant will start to drop its leaves and the leaves will start to turn brown. If the humidity level gets too low, the plant will stop growing and the leaves will start to turn yellow.

Fertilizer Requirement

Regarding fertilizer, this plant is very tolerant and children have been known to kill it with kindness by over-fertilizing. American beech is very difficult to transplant because of its long, deep taproot. It is best to plant beech trees as seedlings in their permanent location.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important part of keeping your American beech tree healthy and strong. Pruning helps to remove dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are growing in an unwanted direction. It is typically best to prune your beech tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

The Propagation

Propagation is generally by seed, which can be sown as soon as it is ripe in the fall. The seed germination rate is high, and seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location as soon as they are large enough to handle. Beech can also be propagated by rooting softwood or hardwood cuttings.

Growth Speed

Usually, the plant growth rate studies have been done on trees in the northern hemisphere and the results may not be applicable to trees in the southern hemisphere. In a study of beech tree growth rates in the United States, it was found that the average beech tree grew at a rate of 11.7 centimeters per year. The study also found that there was a lot of variation in the growth rates of individual trees, with some trees growing much faster or slower than the average.

Basic Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are declining health, cankers, dieback, and borers. The most important thing you can do for your american beech tree is to keep an eye out for these problems and address them as soon as possible.

List to Know

  • Make sure to plant your American beech tree in an area with full sun and rich, well-drained soil.
  • Water your tree regularly, especially during the first few years after planting.
  • Fertilize your tree each spring with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune your American beech tree regularly to maintain its shape and size.
  • Protect your tree from harsh winter weather by wrapping it in burlap or placing it in a sheltered location.
  • Keep an eye out for pests and diseases, and treat them promptly if they appear.
  • Harvest the edible nuts of your American beech tree in the fall.
  • Enjoy the beautiful fall color of your tree’s leaves each year.
  • Use caution when working around your American beech tree, as its roots can be aggressive and damage sidewalks or foundations.
  • Have patience when growing your American beech tree, as

Substitution

  • Alder
  • Ash
  • Aspen
  • Basswood
  • Beech
  • Birch
  • Cherry
  • Chestnut
  • Dogwood

Source:
American Beech | Washington University Trees | Washington …
American beech | Landmark College
Beech, American

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