Beech trees are very robust trees. Diseases do not occur frequently and pest infestation is also limited. Nevertheless, diseases can sometimes occur in an unfavorable location. What diseases are they and how can they be combated?

Stains on beech leaves can be a sign of disease

Which diseases and pests occur?

  • mildew
  • leaf spot disease
  • beech mealybugs
  • white flies
  • spider mites

If the beech turns brown prematurely, you should first check how moist the soil is. Beech trees tolerate neither waterlogging nor drought. They react to this with brown leaves.

If it is very dry, water the tree. This also prevents fungal attack. If the beech suffers from too much moisture, try to drain the soil. If the soil is very moist, you should create drainage before planting.

Fungal diseases on beech trees

If the leaves of the copper beech discolour, if they get yellow and brown spots or if they curl up and later fall off, there is usually a fungal infestation.

Mildew shows up as a whitish coating that can be easily wiped off at first.

Cut out affected parts of the plant. Carefully collect the fallen leaves. Dispose of everything in the household waste bin.

Pest infestation in beech trees

If the leaves curl and there are signs of feeding on the shoots, the beech wool aphid, also known as the decorative beech aphid, is at work. These lice are primarily found on the undersides of the leaves, where they stay throughout the season.

If the leaves are covered with a web of white threads, they are spider mites. Whiteflies show up on the top and bottom of the leaves.

In the case of a light infestation, you can try to drive the pests away with a decoction of nettle or field horsetail. In the case of a severe infestation, only a commercially available insecticide usually helps.

Older beeches cope well with diseases

You have to treat especially young beech trees. Once a tree is well established, it can usually deal with pests and diseases on its own.

tips

When pruning or watering the beech, only use clean gardening tools. Otherwise, they may transmit diseases and pests to the beech trees or other plants. Also, wash your hands thoroughly before doing any other maintenance work in the garden.

Category:

Trees