Soil Requirements for a Tricolor Beech Tree

The Tricolor beech tree has stunning copper autumn leaves. In the right conditions and with the proper care, it can become the focal point of a garden.

Autumn begins. "Up Tree" is Copyrighted by Flickr user: *Micky (Photos by Micky) under the Creative Commons Attribution license.

Size

Once established, and if soil conditions are right, Tricolors can grow as much as 1 foot per year, reaching 25 to 40 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet wide.

Appearance

Tricolors have a rounded pyramid shape and smooth bark. Its 2- to 4-inch leaves are variations of green, pink and white.

Soil Elements

Tricolors need moist, well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 8. The soil range can be mostly sand to mostly clay. This wide range makes them relatively easy to maintain. However, their growth can be stunted by salty soil.

Hardiness

Trees will do well in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 7 and AHS Heat Zone 4 to 4. Maintaining the proper soil balance helps in keeping the tree free from disease.

Care

Tricolors need dappled light. Mulch around the base to prevent the growth of grass or weeds. Feed at planting and during growing season with a fertilizer that contains phosphorous. Check soil elements every spring with a soil test kit that can be purchased from garden shops.

References

• Designing With Trees; Anthony Paul and Yvonne Rees; 1989
• Backyard Gardener
• Growing Among Friends

Resources

• US National Arboretum