Common beeches are very robust trees. Diseases do not occur frequently and pest infestations are also limited. However, illnesses can sometimes occur in an unfavorable location. What diseases are they and how can they be combated?
What diseases can occur in European beech trees?
Common beeches can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, beech mealybugs, whiteflies and spider mites. Fungal diseases are shown by discolored leaves, while pests can be recognized by feeding marks and webs. Young beeches are more likely to need treatment than older, robust trees.
What diseases and pests occur?
- Mildew
- Leaf spot disease
- Beech mealybugs
- Whiteflies
- Spider mites
If the common beech turns brown prematurely, you should first check how moist the soil is. European beeches tolerate neither waterlogging nor drought. They react to this with brown leaves.
If it is very dry, water the tree. This also prevents fungal infestation. If the common beech suffers from too much moisture, try draining the soil. If the soil is very moist, you should create drainage before planting.
Fungal diseases on common beech trees
If the leaves of the common beech change color, get yellow and brown spots or if they curl up and later fall off, there is usually a fungal infection.
Mildew appears as a whitish coating that can initially be easily wiped off.
Cut out affected plant parts. Carefully collect the fallen leaves. Dispose of everything in the household waste bin.
Pest infestation of European beech trees
If the leaves roll and traces of feeding are visible on the shoots, the beech mealybug, also known as the beech ornamental louse, is at work. These lice are found primarily on the undersides of the leaves, where they reside throughout the season.
If the leaves are covered with a web of white threads, these are spider mites. Whiteflies appear on the tops and bottoms of the leaves.
If the infestation is light, you can try to drive away the pests with a decoction of nettle or field horsetail. If there is a severe infestation, only a commercial insecticide will usually help.
Older beech trees cope well with diseases
You especially need to treat young beeches. Once a tree has grown well, it can usually deal with pests and diseases on its own.
Tip
When cutting or watering the European beech, only use clean garden tools. Otherwise, they may transmit diseases and pests to the beeches or other plants. Also wash your hands thoroughly before carrying out other maintenance work in the garden.
