United Kingdom 
We have 2 x carpinus betulas trees planted august last year. Both have leaves still on , the one that concerns me is due to it having very hardy brown leaves on the branches - these have not fallen off and are very strong when try to pull then off. Is the tree going to be ok for spring/summer >
24 Feb, 2012
Answers
When the new leaves start to grow in spring they will push the old ones off, no need to worry.
24 Feb, 2012
Previous question
Carpinus betulus is hornbeam, which, like the beech tree it resembles, often keeps its leaves for at least part of the winter. I wouldn't worry about it - at least not at the moment. Just make sure you keep them well watered if we have dry weather when it is in active growth. A drought at this time of year when it is dormant won't matter.
24 Feb, 2012