The sweetgum tree has its origins in North America. There it is one of the most impressive-looking plants in autumn, striking with sunny yellow, fiery orange to carmine red foliage. What care does this stately solitary tree need?
How do you properly care for a sweetgum tree?
Amber tree care includes regular watering (with decalcified tap water or rainwater), fertilizing every 2 weeks from May to August, protecting young specimens in winter and, if necessary, autumn pruning. Hardy species such as the American sweetgum require little protection; potted plants should overwinter frost-free.
Should you water the sweetgum tree?
If the sweetgum tree is in a pot, you should water it regularly. It is important that the soil does not dry out, as this plant cannot tolerate that at all. At the same time, it cannot cope with accumulated moisture. At best, keep the soil slightly moist and water when the top layer of soil has dried!
Watering is also important when grown outdoors and in a location in direct sun. This is especially true in summer. As a precaution, you should mulch your sweetgum tree. By the way: You should use decalcified tap water or rainwater for watering!
From when to when and how often should this plant be fertilized?
When fertilizing you should observe the following instructions:
- from May
- by the end of August at the latest
- every 2 weeks
- both organic and mineral fertilizers are suitable
- Fertilize potted plants with liquid fertilizer
- Fertilize outdoor plants with compost or horn shavings
- alternatively mulch with grass clippings or bark
Does the sweetgum tree necessarily need a cut?
The sweetgum tree is naturally blessed with harmonious growth. It forms a conical to round crown without regular pruning. Therefore, cutting is not absolutely necessary.
Nevertheless, sometimes it can make sense to use scissors or a saw - preferably in autumn. Around October, branches that are diseased, too old, crossing each other and growing inwards can be removed. If shoots freeze in winter, they can be shortened orcan be cut out.
Is wintering useful?
- only the American sweetgum tree is hardy in this country
- protect young specimens with leaves, straw or brushwood
- Protect even in rough situations
- Wrap the crown with fleece
- in the bucket: overwinter frost-free
- Remove winter protection early in spring to minimize the risk of mold
Tip
From September onwards, the sweetgum tree should no longer be fertilized. Otherwise, its shoots will no longer be able to mature until the first frost and will suffer damage in the winter.