Question
I have a very nice Copper beech in central MD, probably planted in 1986-1987, making it now 24 years old. For the first time in my memory, it is producing seed pods. My question is: Is Seed production initiated by age, or is it a variable of rainfall?, as this summer has been much wetter than most past summers, yet warmer overall, especially record temps in July. Will I see seed production now every year?
Appears to be tolerant of everything Maryland can throw at it.

thank you!

Answer
Hi Jeff,
Thanx for your question.  I am not a tree expert but I can provide you with the following information.  The cooper beech Fagus sylvatica is native in Europe from southern Sweden south to Iberia and East to Turkey.  It has a wide range of habitats.  It generally begins blooming and producing seed from age 30-80 years.  You tree may have experienced optimum climate and growing conditions causing it to reach sexual maturity earlier.    In general, from what I know about fruit production, trees will bloom and produce fruit/seed in conjunction with climactic and environmental conditions.  The more severe the conditions, the less fruitful.  In general.  I don't think Maryland's climate is too harsh at all for this tree.  If you would like better information, I refer you to our local Tree expert, Jim Hyland, who was with the U.S. Forestry Service for many years.  I'm sure Jim's expertise far exceeds mine in regard to Trees and if you would like to pose your inquiry to him, I invite you to do so by going back to Home/Gardening and then clicking on Trees and then clicking on Trees.  I hope this helps.
Tom