How to Grow and Care for European Beech

The European beech (Fagus sylvatica) is a popular deciduous shade tree (it loses its leaves in the fall) from Europe. It typically grows quite large with an upright oval to rounded shape. The trunk is relatively short with branches starting low on the tree. Smooth, thin, silvery gray bark is a trademark of European beech trees. This slow-growing tree requires full sun to partial shade and neutral to slightly acidic soil. European beech trees produce beechnuts that are toxic to humans and pets. Read on for our growing guide.

European Beech Care

These are the main care requirements for growing European beech:

• Keep young trees well watered, but make sure they’re not sitting in soggy soil
• Water whenever the soil starts to dry out
• Fertilize annually

Light

European beech trees can grow in full sun to partial shade. Full sun, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days, is best for optimal growth. But the trees can tolerate slightly less light if need be.

Soil

The trees thrive in rich, loose, loamy soil that has a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH. They also require sharp soil drainage. They can tolerate various other soil types, including soil with a slightly alkaline pH, as long as there is good drainage. 

Water

European beech trees like evenly moist, but not soggy, soil. And they’re fairly intolerant to drought conditions. So during hot weather and/or a stretch without rainfall, water your tree deeply as soon as the soil begins to dry out. The trees will benefit from a layer of mulch over their root area to help maintain soil moisture.

Temperature and Humiidty

Mild temperatures are ideal for these trees; they don’t like extreme cold or heat. Likewise, they prefer a moderate humidity level. In high humidity, ensure that the trees have good soil drainage and sufficient air circulation among the branches. And in dry conditions, pay extra attention to keeping the soil evenly moist.

Fertilizer

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer each spring following label instructions. Be sure to spread it under the tree’s entire canopy and extend about a foot beyond the canopy circumference to target the whole root zone. Compost mixed into the soil at the time of planting also can be beneficial for the tree.

Types of European Beech

There are several varieties of the European beech tree, including:

• Fagus sylvatica 'Tricolor': This cultivar features variegated leaves with a mix of pink, white, and green. 
• Fagus sylvatica 'Purpurea': This tree is known for its beautiful coppery purple foliage that turns to a copper-red in the fall.
• Fagus sylvatica 'Pendula': This cultivar is slightly smaller than the main species tree and has a weeping growth habit (like a weeping willow), with branches drooping toward the ground.
• Fagus sylvatica 'Atropunicea': The foliage on this cultivar emerges nearly black and turns to a purple-green throughout the growing season.

Pruning

European beech trees don’t need much pruning, as they naturally grow in an attractive form. However, if branches are growing too close together and rubbing against one another, remove one of the branches to prevent bark damage. Also, remove suckers (the thin stems that sometimes grow from the base of the tree), as they can sap the tree’s energy. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring before new leaves emerge. But any dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed whenever you spot them.

How to Propagate European Beech Tree

While it is difficult, it is possible to propagate a European beech tree with cuttings. Here's how:

1. With a sharp, sterile instrument, cut a healthy shoot approximately 6 to 8 inches in length.
2. Keep the cuttings moist until you are able to plant.
3. Fill well-draining containers with a mix of soil and compost. Dip cuttings into a rooting hormone, then plant at least two inches apart.
4. Water and place in a cool location with partial sunlight.
5. Do not let dry out completely and increase watering when weather warms up.
6. Once rooted, plant the tree in the ground (the following spring).

Overwintering

European beech trees can withstand winter temperatures up to USDA zone 4. They require no special cold protection.

Common Pests & Plant Diseases

These trees generally don’t have any major issues with pests or diseases. However, occasionally beech scale, aphids, and borers might infest a tree and cause leaf damage. If you notice an infestation, use a horticultural oil or insecticide as soon as possible.

Beech leaf disease can be an issue, which is caused by a nematode, Litylenchus. You may notice leaf damage or drop. Regularly inspect your trees to make sure they are free of disease. The best method to keep a tree healthy is prevention by maintaining its desired growing conditions. 

Common Growing Issues

Yellowing Leaves

If you notice your European beech tree's leaves yellowing, it might be due to overwatering. These trees don't like to sit in overly soggy soil, so you'll need to adjust the moisture levels.

Curling Leaves

Leaves may curl due to aphids feeding on them. You can opt for a horticultural oil or insecticide to help treat and prevent.