Tricolor beech tree - Ask Extension
I have a mature tricolor beech tree in my courtyard. In the past few years I have noticed many of the plants under it are becoming small or possibly d...
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Tricolor beech tree #926814
Asked March 26, 2026, 12:20 PM EDT
I have a mature tricolor beech tree in my courtyard. In the past few years I have noticed many of the plants under it are becoming small or possibly dying. My giant hostas are now barely there and now even the creeping Jenny is struggling. My research says it is quite possible that the root network of the tree is robbing all of the moisture. The area is irrigated. Is there a solution to this? Any recommendations on what I can grow or how? It receives some morning sun but is shaded most of the time. Thank you!
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Heide,
Yes, as the tree grows, its root system will become more extensive, outcompeting other plants - it has more opportunity to find and use the water compared to the smaller perennials. Your situation is like having a tree in the lawn. Over time, the tree becomes very large and the shade causes the lawn to suffer.
In this situation, you might just focus on making sure the tree stays healthy and place mulch below it, instead of having plants. It's a natural part of a maturing landscape.
Tricolor beech is one of my absolute favorite trees - I'm so glad to see these planted occasionally in northern Colorado!
Yes, as the tree grows, its root system will become more extensive, outcompeting other plants - it has more opportunity to find and use the water compared to the smaller perennials. Your situation is like having a tree in the lawn. Over time, the tree becomes very large and the shade causes the lawn to suffer.
In this situation, you might just focus on making sure the tree stays healthy and place mulch below it, instead of having plants. It's a natural part of a maturing landscape.
Tricolor beech is one of my absolute favorite trees - I'm so glad to see these planted occasionally in northern Colorado!
