Beech Tree Galls and Nut Drop: Normal, Not Harmful

Beech Tree Galls and Nut Drop: Normal, Not Harmful

Seed-like structures falling from a 30-year-old tri-color beech each autumn are either insect galls (harmless growths from wasp/mite eggs) or the tree's natural nut crop. Galls form when insects lay eggs and secrete chemicals that swell leaf/twig tissue. They do not affect tree health.

Identification

• Galls: small, often hollow, on leaves or twigs.
• Nuts: prickly husks containing 1-3 triangular seeds.

No action needed. The tree is healthy; these are natural annual occurrences.