Finding the Perfect Copper Beech Tree for Your Landscape

Copper beech trees are absolutely stunning additions to any landscape. With their towering height graceful form, and beautiful purple foliage it’s no wonder these trees have become so popular. If you’ve decided a copper beech is right for your yard, the next step is finding one for sale that fits your needs. With the right knowledge and preparation, getting that perfect copper beech tree is easy.

An Overview of Copper Beech Trees

Let’s start with a quick overview of this gorgeous tree. The copper beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’) is a cultivar of the European beech tree. It’s named for its stunning purple leaves that emerge a soft copper-green in spring before deepening to a rich burgundy-purple shade in summer. The leaves turn a lovely bronze-orange in autumn.

Mature copper beeches can grow 40-60 feet tall with a 30-50 foot spread. They have a dense, rounded canopy with smooth silver-gray bark. The bark and twisting branch structure create striking winter interest. Copper beeches thrive in full sun to partial shade and perform well in USDA Hardiness Zones 5-7.

These trees make excellent solitary specimens or shade trees Their roots are noninvasive, so they work near patios and walkways. The purple foliage provides a gorgeous pop of color and texture contrast against green lawns or foundation plants

Where to Find Copper Beech Trees for Sale

Now that you know the beauty and benefits of the copper beech. where do you find one for sale? Here are some top options

Local Nurseries

Check independent nurseries and garden centers in your area. A local nursery that grows its own trees is best. You can see the tree’s condition firsthand before purchasing. Ask questions about the tree’s age, care history, etc. Local nurseries may have limited selection, so call ahead to check availability.

Online Nurseries

Online nurseries like Moon Valley Nurseries offer a wide selection of high-quality copper beeches shipped directly to your door. Reputable online sellers carefully package trees to prevent damage during shipping. Make sure to check reviews and shop early as inventory sells out.

Big Box Stores

Large home improvement chains like Home Depot and Lowe’s sell copper beeches seasonally. Selection is limited, but you can often find young container-grown trees. Inspect them thoroughly for good structure and health. Big box copper beeches may need TLC to recover from prolonged storage.

Mail Order Trees

Order bare root copper beeches during the dormant season from mail order nurseries like Stark Bros. This is a budget-friendly option, but you get only a bare root tree that requires proper planting and aftercare. Order in late fall or early spring for best selection.

What to Look for When Buying Your Copper Beech

Once you’ve found some copper beech trees for sale, what should you look for in selecting your perfect specimen? Here are key points:

• Healthy roots & structure: Avoid trees with crushed, circling, or tangled roots. Look for good branch structure without splitting or weak crotches.

• Chlorosis-free leaves: Leaves should be fully purple, free of yellowing that indicates nutrient deficiency.

• Proper size & form: Select a tree sized appropriately for your space. Seek good central stem and balanced branching.

• Vigor: Avoid skinny trunks and sparse buds. Look for signs of healthy new growth.

• Soil conditions: Ensure the nursery soil suits copper beech requirements. Amend if needed after planting.

• Age/maturity: Beware bare root whips (very young trees). Seek partially established trees unless you’ll wait years for maturity.

Get any guarantees or care instructions from the seller in writing. Examine the tree thoroughly before purchase and planting. With careful selection, your copper beech has the best chance of not just surviving, but absolutely thriving for decades of beauty.

Preparing Your Site for Planting

The work doesn’t stop once you’ve selected and purchased your copper beech tree! Proper site preparation and planting are just as crucial. To ensure your copper beech gets established quickly:

• Test and amend your soil pH to slightly acidic levels ideal for copper beeches. Incorporate organic compost before planting.

• Choose a site with good drainage and full sun for fastest growth. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates.

• Eliminate competing grass and weeds by tilling, using mulch rings, or non-residual herbicides. Avoid weed fabric which can strangle roots.

• Set up irrigation if regular rainfall is insufficient. Copper beeches require moist (not wet) soil.

• Prepare a wide planting hole at least twice the width of the root ball. Dig only as deep as the root ball height.

• Space multiple copper beeches at least 30-40 feet apart for mature spread. Keep clear of structures, pavements, and utility lines.

Taking time to create the ideal growing conditions gives your copper beech tree its best start. Pair that with proper planting and follow-up care, and you’ll enjoy a healthy, vigorous copper beech for many years.

Planting Your New Copper Beech Tree

Once your site is prepped, it’s time to get your new copper beech in the ground! Follow these tips for smooth planting:

• Before planting container trees, gently loosen circling roots or cut thick mats with sharp pruners.

• Place the root ball in the center of the hole. Face the best side of the tree toward your viewing spot.

• Ensure the root flare sits at original soil level. The trunk should not be buried.

• Partially backfill the hole and water to settle soil before finishing. Eliminate air pockets.

• Stake the tree only if needed to prevent windsway on loose soil. Allow some trunk movement.

• Apply 2-4″ of organic mulch like bark or wood chips over the root zone. Avoid mulch contact with the trunk.

• Water thoroughly at planting and as needed to maintain moist soil, especially during dry weather.

Follow proper planting steps, and your copper beech will establish a healthy root system quicker after transplanting. Pay close attention in the first year for best results.

Caring for Your Copper Beech Tree

Keep your investment protected by providing proper care during your copper beech tree’s first years in the ground:

• Water 1-2 times per week for the first season, then taper off as the tree establishes.

• Stake for no more than one year to build trunk strength.

• Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches in early years. Wait to shape until the tree matures.

• Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer once in early spring for the first 2-3 years after planting.

• Weed, mulch, and amend soil as needed. Check soil pH annually.

• Inspect regularly for pests or diseases. Maintain vigor through proper culture.

• Wrap trunks of young trees in winter to prevent frost cracks, sunscalding, and critter damage.

Providing attentive aftercare gives your copper beech the best chance of thriving in its new home. As it matures, minimal care is required to enjoy the benefits of this incredible tree.

Enjoy the Timeless Beauty

With their stately presence and superb color, it’s easy to see why copper beech trees are so beloved. Follow the tips above to find the perfect copper beech specimen, plant it properly, and keep it healthy and happy for decades to come. Soon you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy the elegant, stunning beauty this classic shade tree provides in every season.