Fagus sylvatica (European/Common Beech) seeds

Classic native hedging plant with medium green leaves which turn a lovely rich copper shade in autumn and persist all winter.  Very tolerant of wind and shade and easy to trim into shape hence its popularity for hedging.  As a hedge it can be maintained at any height over 90cm and will grow at a rate of 60cm a year.  Trim once a year in July or August.  Left to grow naturally, it will become a majestic, large tree up to 30m high at maturity.

Hardy Tree
Height: to 30m if not pruned
Position: Sun to shade in any soil except very wet

Packet of 15 seeds 

GROWING GUIDE

Pre-sowing Treatment: Soak seeds overnight.

Sowing Instructions: Can be sown at any time of year. Sow evenly in moist compost mixed 50:50 with vermiculite or perlite and just cover the seeds with sieved compost, vermiculite or perlite. Seal in a polythene bag and place in fridge for 6 weeks, then transfer to a propagator or other warm place and maintain at 15 to 20C. Germination usually starts after 30 days but can take up to a year.

Alternatively, sow as above, seal in a polythene bag and place in a cold frame or sheltered part of the garden and let nature take its course as the seasons change. (I personally find this gives the best results)

Growing Instructions: When seedlings have emerged, open the bag or propagator vents and grow on in cooler conditions (13-16C). When the seedlings are at least 2” tall, carefully pot them up into 7.5 or 9cm pots and grow on out of direct sunlight, protecting the young trees in a coldframe for the first couple of winters. Harden off in spring and plant out in any position in any soil except waterlogged.