Tricolor Beech Tree Common Problems – 4 Things to Know

Tri-color beech are popular garden plants because of their colorful foliage and low-maintenance nature. These plants are remarkably hardy and climate-resistant. However, there are some issues that trouble tricolor beech trees.

Although most of them are not of much concern, there are some problems that can become fatal. Such as

  • Not Growing
  • Tips browning
  • Falling Leaves
  • Diseases; are the main obstacle to tri-color beech trees’ normal growth.

In this article, I will discuss the problems in detail and will tell you how to solve them in an easy way. So stay with me.

4 Common Tricolor Beech Tree Problems and Solutions

Tri Color European Beech Tree

1. Not Growing

Tri-Color beech not growing is a complicated issue. Sometimes even the slightest variation in care can cause your plants to grow poorly. And you will not easily understand why this is happening. So let’s look at some of the factors that hinder the normal growth of tri-color beech trees.

Causes

  • Overexposure to Sun
  • Poor Soil 
  • Improper watering
  • High temperature
  • Lack of Nutrients.

Treatment Guide

The tri-color beech tree prefers shade as it usually grows in forests. A shade cloth must be provided if your plant is located in a location that receives prolonged sunlight.

Soil pH should be kept between 5.5-6.5. You can use organic compost there to increase the water-holding capacity of the soil.

Water the tree regularly for the next two years after planting.  A soil dryness test is important before watering. Salt water should be used. You can use a water filter to ensure water quality.

The temperature should be kept between 70-75°F.  Apply enough fertilizer once or twice a year to support plant growth.

2. Tips Browning

Browning of tricolor beech leaves is a fatal problem, although it adds to their beauty.  Because the tips of some leaves turn brown and the leaves gradually fall off.

Causes

  • Heat Stress
  • Under watering
  • Dry soil

Treatment Guide

Keep your tree far from the full sun. Do not plant it in an open place. If already done then protect it from sunburn.

Under-watering and dry soil are quite related. Water them regularly by measuring the dryness of the soil. You can use a moisture meter or use 3-4 inches long sticks to know the soil conditions.(Our Pick: SONKIR Soil pH Meter, MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/Light/pH Tester)

Again use slightly acidic soil which has good water-holding capability. Earthworms can be a good choice to increase soil quality.

3. Falling Leaves

Tri-color beech leaves are its main beauty. So if you suddenly find that your tree leaves are starting to fall, it is definitely a cause for concern.

Causes

  • Overwatering
  • Poor Soil
  • Pruning mistake
  • Pests

Treatment Guide

Though frequent watering is needed for tricolor beech trees, you have to stop excess watering. Dig slightly deep holes around the base of the plant, from which excess water can drain.

Before planting your tricolor beech, take some good quality garden soil and add 30% perlite and 20% bark mix then plant. You can also add a little amount of organic compost to it.

Regular pruning is recommended. Remove a branch where it rubs against another to avoid damaging the bark, which can lead to the development of fungi infections. The optimum time to prune is in the late winter dormant period.

A good quality insecticide is the best way to protect plants from pests.  Also, you can spray six tablespoons of a dishwasher and two to three tablespoons of vinegar in one liter of water once a day for two weeks. 

Apply a fresh water spray to the plant every morning and evening to protect the plant from new pests.

4. Diseases

Root rot, Canker, and Beech bark disease are the most common diseases of tricolor beech trees.  All three diseases can be fatal to your plants. So it is important to know the reason behind them.

Causes

  • Waterlogged soil
  • Low humidity
  • fungal attacks.

Treatment Guide

Care should be taken in soil selection and the plant should not be overwatered.  If symptoms of root rot appear, plants should be replanted if they are young. Apply antifungal powder if the tree is mature. 

Below 40% humidity is dangerous for tricolor beech trees. So maintain at least 50% humidity. Regular fresh water misting can be a wise idea.

Fungicides must be applied to prevent canker diseases. If your tree is already affected, prune the dead branches immediately. Remove the infected part carefully if your tree has the bark-losing disease.

Basic Info and Requirements for Tricolor Beech

Tricolor Beech Requirements

Common NameTricolor Beech.
FamilyFagaceae. 
Plant typeTree
LightPartial shade.
Soil typeMoist, well-drained and slightly acidic.
TemperatureBetween 70-75°F

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why are my tri-color beech tree leaves curling?

Ans: Aphid infestation is a significant cause. Aphids basically suck the sap from the leaves and dehydrate the leaves.  As a result, the leaves fail to produce the required energy and slowly shrivel. But most of the time it doesn’t normally pose a threat to the health of the tree.

How does an underwater tricolor beech tree look?

Ans: When you don’t apply enough water to your plant, the plant’s growth will be stunted. The leaves will first turn pale and later turn yellow or brown. The tree will become weak. Weak trees are prime targets for pests, so infestations will increase.

Which Fertilizer is good for Tricolor beech trees?

Ans: Apply fertilizer to your tricolor beech every year, usually in March, just before the start of new growth in the spring. A general granular fertilizer is good. You can also use nitrogen and magnesium-rich fertilizer.

Final Word

The tricolor beech is an attractive plant, but it has a number of issues. Such issues are especially prevalent in young trees. Therefore, after planting the tree, you must be careful about your plant.

However, damaged trees quickly recover with routine care and prompt action. A thorough knowledge of plant issues and a grasp of when treatments are required are prerequisites for being a skilled gardener. You won’t be able to rapidly fix your tree till then. Happy gardening.

James Rivenburg
James Rivenburg
James Rivenburg

James Rivenburg is the founder of plantandpest.com, a passionate gardener with valuable experience and knowledge gained through trial and error. The website has a large community of followers who trust his tips and techniques and have succeeded with his advice. He is always Committed to helping others create a beautiful and healthy garden.

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