did you know?

There are no cultivars of the American beech, but there are three different races of American beech. The gray beech is found in the northern U.S. and eastern mountain regions. The white beech is found in southern coastal regions, and the red beech is found in between and intermixed with both.

general maintenance:

Prune damaged and weak stems or branches, keeping crown open.

pests/diseases:

The American beech is relatively carefree.

how to sow/plant:

Choose a sunny to partly sunny site with well-drained soil, making sure there is enough room for tree to reach its mature spread. In early spring, dig a hole twice as wide as container or root ball. Set plant at same depth or slightly higher than it was in pot, or if balled, level soil with top of root ball. Fill hole around plant with soil. Mound soil to form a 2-inch-high ridge around perimeter of the hole to act as a catchbasin. If plant is balled in synthetic fabric, remove carefully before planting. Natural-fiber burlap may be left around root ball and then peeled back once plant is set in hole. Water thoroughly, filling the basin and allowing water to settle several times. Spread 2-inch layer of mulch around plant.

water and fertilize:

Maintain uniform soil moisture the first season. Be sure the soil is moist before the ground freezes in fall. Each spring before growth begins, apply an all-purpose fertilizer, following label directions. Once shrub is established, usually by the third year, water only in times of drought.

garden hint:

Avoid planting the American beech in low-lying areas or near recent construction sites, because it will not tolerate wet or heavily compacted soils.

features:

• Deciduous
• Fall Foliage
• Native
• Winter Interest

garden uses:

• Shade Woodland Garden

other uses: