Frans Fontaine Hornbeam

Care guide

Tree managed as hedge form Current height ~12', goal ~8' Part shade tolerant

Wind exposure is the primary concern — stake if wind-exposed after transplant

Structural pruning: early-mid March First year: reduce to ~9-9.5' (not straight to 8') 12' to 8' in one season can shock the plant, trigger aggressive vertical water sprouts, and reduce lateral density Gradual reduction redirects growth laterally and improves hedge density Remove competing leaders, cut above strong lateral branches Shape: maintain slight A-shape (wider base than top) Light refinement: early July

Best timing: early-mid March Preserve large root ball Stake if wind-exposed Deep soak after planting

| Window | Tasks | |---|---| | Early-mid March | Structural prune; transplant if moving (large root ball + deep soak) | | Early July | Light refinement |