Which diseases and pests can occur?
- Leaf spot fungus
- Powdery mildew
- Spider mites
- Beech wool louse
- Beech ornamental louse
In general, it can be said that a healthy beech tree can cope with diseases and pests as long as the infestation does not get out of hand.
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In the case of young, freshly planted beech hedges, it is advisable to combat diseases and pests at an early stage. Otherwise there is a risk that the young plants will die because they have not yet been able to develop enough resistance.
Fungal diseases on beech hedges
You can best recognize fungal diseases by the leaves. If these curl up, discolour, dry out and fall off prematurely, a fungus is often responsible. Powdery mildew is noticeable through whitish spots on the leaves.
Fungi often occur in very humid summers or when the site is waterlogged.
Cut off infected parts of the plant generously. The beech can tolerate a generous cut into the old wood. Dispose of all cuttings, including the fallen leaves, in the garbage can - not in the compost!
Pests that appear on beech hedges
Beech lice can be a real danger, especially in hedges. An infestation is shown by curling leaves that later fall off. You can tell that they are lice and other pests by the feeding tunnels, larvae or lice themselves.
Sometimes it helps to treat the beeches with nettle stock. In the case of severe infestation, this is rarely sufficient. In this case, you have no choice but to use a fungicide from a garden specialist.
Cut off all affected parts and throw them in the garbage can. It is important that you also carefully rake up and dispose of fallen leaves in autumn, as the pests hibernate in it and attack the beech hedge again next year.
Tips
“Prevention is better than cure” - This old phrase is also justified when it comes to beech hedges. Make sure that the natural enemies of the pests such as lacewings, ladybugs, parasitic wasps (€ 14.59 at Amazon *) and hover flies feel comfortable in the garden. They help to keep the pest infestation within limits.
