FORUM™ BLACKGUM

FORUM™ BLACKGUM Homeowner Growing & Maintenance Tips

• Recommended Soil:
• Prefers rich, organic, acidic soil for best growth and foliage color.
• Thrives in evenly moist, well-drained conditions.
• Intolerant of alkaline soils; may develop chlorosis if pH is too high.
• Avoid heavy, compacted sites without soil improvement.
• Sun Exposure:
• Performs best in full sun for strongest fall color.
• Tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer climates.
• Ideal as a specimen tree in open lawns or layered woodland edges.
• More sunlight enhances canopy density and autumn brilliance.
• Irrigation Needs:
• Water regularly during the first growing season to establish deep roots.
• Prefers evenly moist soil but does not tolerate standing water.
• Once established, moderately drought tolerant due to deep taproot.
• Mulch to conserve soil moisture and regulate temperature.
• Feeding & Nutrients:
• Apply compost or acid-loving tree fertilizer in early spring if needed.
• Test soil pH before fertilizing to prevent nutrient imbalance.
• Maintain organic mulch layer to improve soil structure.
• Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers that promote excessive soft growth.
• Pruning & Maintenance:
• Minimal pruning required due to strong natural form.
• Prune in late winter after severe cold has passed.
• Remove dead or damaged branches as needed.
• Plant young and in a permanent location—mature trees transplant poorly.

Family: Cornaceae · Common Name: Blackgum

FREE with every plant purchased:

• The Sooner Guarantee: For details, click here!
• A pre-applied, pre-measured amount of time release fertilizer that keeps your plant well nourished for up to one year.
• Pre-hydrated Hydro-Gels are included in the top of each container to use when planting as they help retain soil moisture, and plants will establish more quickly with less transplant shock. Plants will also survive drought-like conditions and accidental missed waterings better.
• Planting and Care Instruction brochure.
• Catalogs of new and exciting plant brands, such as Garden Debut® and Proven Winners®.

We use and recommend www.dripdepot.com for our irrigation needs, from simple to install micro and drip systems, to commercial grade irrigation parts and supplies.

Interesting Notes About FORUM™ BLACKGUM

• "Alligator" Bark Appeal: Mature black gums develop deeply furrowed bark that resembles reptile skin, providing striking winter texture.
• Tupelo Honey Heritage: Blackgum flowers are a major nectar source for bees, producing the famous light, buttery tupelo honey.
• Taproot Strength: A strong taproot anchors the tree, contributing to excellent wind resistance and long lifespan.
• Wildlife Powerhouse: The native species supports moths, butterflies, birds, and cavity-nesting wildlife as it matures.
• Improved Structure: Forum was one of the first commercially successful black gum cultivars selected specifically for consistent pyramidal form and landscape reliability.