Growing Aesculus (Horse Chestnut, Buckeye)

Pronunciation: ess'kew-luss   

These deciduous trees and shrubs are easily recognized by their large, compound leaves with five to seven leaflets and shiny brown seeds found inside spiny casings. The tree species produce a grand display of upright flower panicles in spring, and are widely planted as lawn specimens for their dense shade or as residential street trees.

Light/Watering: Full sun or partial shade. Water thoroughly after planting, and then give a new plant a good soaking once a week during summer, unless rainfall is plentiful (more than 1in per week). Please note that more is not better. When in doubt, don't water.

Fertilizer/Soil and pH: Moist, well drained soil. We recommend against fertilizing at planting time and during the first growing season in your garden. Plants need time to settle in before being pushed to grow. Most established plants grow best if fertilized with a light hand. Here at the Farm, we fertilize shrubs and trees just once -- in early spring -- with a light but even coverage of a balanced, granular fertilizer (such 10-10-10 or an organic fertilizer).

Continuing Care: Easily grown. Foliage tends to scorch and deteriorate in dry soil. Some species are prone to leaf diseases, Japanese beetles, and scale insects. Train trees to form a central leader.