When you plant a young European beech in the garden, you should remember that the small tree will grow into a mighty tree in a very short time. At the beginning, young beeches need a little more attention. As older trees, they look after themselves.
How do you care for a young European beech tree in the garden?
To optimally care for a young common beech, you should water it regularly, fertilize it from March to August, cut it into shape annually and thin it out in spring. A mulch cover in autumn and wind protection in the first few years are also recommended.
Make sure there is enough space for the young beech tree
At first you can't tell how big the young beech tree will become. But the tree grows up to 50 centimeters in height and width every year.
Therefore, keep a sufficient distance from other plants and especially from buildings, walls, sidewalks and supply lines.
After a few years, the European beech has formed a strong network of roots that can damage walls, lift pavement slabs and blow up supply lines.
Pruning young beeches after planting
Immediately after planting the common beech, you should grab secateurs (€14.00 on Amazon). Cut the tree back by a third.
This stimulates the formation of new shoots and, above all, new branches. This makes the crown of the common beech beautifully bushy.
Older trees do not need pruning. However, you can cut them back if the copper beech simply gets too big.
How to care for a young European beech tree
While older European beeches require no care at all, you should pay a little more attention to a young European beech. The following care measures are necessary:
- water regularly
- fertilize from March to August
- cut into shape once a year
- thinning out in spring
Put a blanket of mulch under the tree in the fall. It prevents the young roots from drying out and at the same time ensures fresh nutrients in the following year.
Treating diseases in young beech trees
Young copper beeches are not yet as resilient as older trees. If they are attacked by diseases and pests, you need to take action. Otherwise, in the worst case scenario, the copper beech will die.
Generously cut out all shoots that are affected by pests and diseases. If the infestation is severe, the only option is to use fungicides or insecticides.
Tip
Young copper beeches do not tolerate too much draft well. Provide wind protection for the first few years. Also tie the tree to a support post, as the roots need some time to anchor the common beech well in the ground.