Today we look at another Newtown, CT tree in full bloom. The Horse Chestnut Tree (Aesculus hippocastanum). According to information from "The University of Florida IFAS Extension" Horse Chestnut trees are native to the Balkan peninsula, but are today widely planted world wide. Horse Chestnut can reach heights of 50 - 90 feet in the landscape setting. Even though Horse Chestnut is not native to North America the tree has done quite well at becoming naturalized to our local North American climates. It would be well worth your time to scout out the Horse Chestnut Tree which is now displaying its prominent large flowers which occur in panicles at the branch tips. In the winter Horse Chestnut Trees have a very unusual large almost black buds that are very sticky to the touch. Horse Chestnut Trees are comfortable within the USDA hardiness zones 4A - 7B which will indeed fit right into our Newtown, CT zone 6A hardiness zone. The growth rate is considered moderate and the leaf arrangement is opposite with palmately compound leaves. Best planting areas are full sun and well drained soil. Most Horse Chestnuts I have worked with over the years often develop leaf blotch which is mostly a cosmetic, aesthetic problem and generally does not kill the tree. As always for questions about your trees contact your local Yack and Sons Tree Service Staff Forester / Arborist for your FREE CHECK-UP FROM THE TRUNK-UP!
jeff@yackoandsons.com 203-733-9219
