Birch Trees

Typically found in the Northern Hemisphere, birch trees are ornamental tall, slender, and beautiful-looking trees that can add immense beauty to any landscape. One of the biggest reasons Birch trees are chosen as landscape trees you may ask? Well, they’re paper-thin and sometimes used for shredding bark!

Birch trees are a great addition to your yard, but they look even better with plants that accompany them. Birch trees can be grown with various companion plants, including: Plantain Lily, Foamflower, Lilyturf, Bugleweed, Allegheny Spurge, Hellebores, Snowdrops, Daffodils and Bluebells.

Birch trees are a sight to see in the forest! In fact, in open forest areas, you might notice that birch trees are one of the first colonizer trees. They add texture and color to landscapes throughout the year – and today, we’re talking about the best plants to plant under them as an accent to your yard at home! Keep reading to find out more!

Can You Grow Plants Under A Birch Tree?

It’s the prime question of the hour here! And the answer is – YES, you can!

Planting under a birch tree isn’t impossible. In fact, due to their fabulous yet elegant winter display, birch trees are a prime landscape feature that will look even better with companion plants.

However, always be careful when considering plants to plant under your birch tree. You should avoid planting trees all together, because each tree will them compete for nutrients and water, making one tree flourish while the other to deteriorate.

If you’re also thinking about planting a birch tree be sure to check out our article – 9 Best Places To Plant A Birch Tree And Where They Grow Best!

How To Pick The Right Plants To Grow Under A Birch Tree

When it comes to choosing the right companion plant for your birch tree you must keep several things in mind! Let’s talk about them below.

Firstly, you must make sure that the plant doesn’t take away from the nutrients or water that the birch tree will need to grow and flourish – if a new plant drinks all the water, then you’re not going to have a flourishing birch tree!

Secondly, consider the soil needs and root structure of the birch trees before choosing a plant. Birch trees have shallow root structures that will have to accommodate a plant that doesn’t overshadow the Birch tree root system.

Thirdly, you should consider the amount of light that is available under the birch tree. You will have to find a plant that prefers partial shade.

If a plant needs full sun, planting under a birch tree may not be the best idea, since a birch tree offers so much shade. However, birch trees need a lot of sun to grow, for more information check out our article on the reasons why birch trees cant grow in the shade.

6 Best Plants to Plant Under Your Birch Tree

There are ton of amazing plants to plant under your birch tree – and today, we’re talking about all of them!

Plantain Lily Are Great For Under Your Birch Tree

Part of the Hosta genus, plantain lilies are perennials that love the shade and provide an attractive sight to any garden. Conveniently they are low-maintenance and although they tolerate the sun, they thrive in shady areas -which makes them perfect for growing under a birch tree!

Plantain Lilies come in many gorgeous colors – emerald, green, greenish, gold, gray and blue, white, lavender, and purple. They can grow 6 inches up to 3 feet tall.

Their foliage grows in early summer. They generally require rich, moist, and well-draining soils.

Foamflower Will Grow Great Under Your Birch Tree

Tiarella cordifolia – Foamflowers are one of the most beautiful wildflowers that are typically found in Eastern United States woodlands and forests.

Foamflowers are known for their beautiful starry white flowers that have a light pink hue. Although Foamflowers stay beautiful throughout the summer, during the fall season the plant can turn gorgeous hues of bronze and red-orange.

These shrubs love nutrient-rich, well-draining, moist soil. According to Clemson Cooperative Extension Home & Garden Information Center, they also prefer a soil pH of 4.5 – 7.0 which will allow the shrubs to grow healthy – which is perfect for growing under a birch tree!

Also, another good thing about Foamflowers is that they are generally left alone by your regular garden pests (deer or rabbits). Except in winter – if your pests have nothing else to eat, they will munch on your Foamflowers.

A quick tip: If you are looking for a good way to measure your soil pH, you can try this iPower soil pH meter. Using a soil meter is important as soil pH can determine the soil’s health and whether any changes need to be made for the plants to grow healthy.

Lilyturf Is Perfect For Underneath Your Birch Tree

The Liriope genus have these beautiful ground-covering shrubs which have flowers that may remind you of lavender.

These ever-green shrubs prefer partial sun/shade. And get this – one of the benefits of having Lilyturf in your garden is that they suppress the growth of weeds. They prefer growing in partial sun/shade with well-draining soil consistent with clay and gravel.

These shrubs are easy to take care of and require moderate amounts of water. They wouldn’t be a bad idea to plant around your Birch trees as they WON’T absorb all the water which would leave the Birch tree high-and-dry.

The cool thing about these shrubs is that they can thrive in a variety of conditions such as: heat, cold, dry weather, and humidity. It’s also important to note that once these shrubs are established, they are drought tolerant. You also wouldn’t have to worry about diseases and pests, as these shrubs are resistant to those too!

Bugleweed Is Also Good For Under Your Birch Tree

Ajuga Reptans can be an interesting ground-covering species as it can suppress the growth of other weeds. This fast-growing, luscious perennial has shiny, emerald-colored leaves with beautiful blue, purple, and sometimes violet flowers – and will look amazing under your birch tree!

It’s also a natural weed suppressant since it’s such a good, natural ground cover.

Typically, Bugleweed is planted in early summer late spring so you can give it enough time to bloom from May to June. These species do best in USDA zones 4 to 9 and prefer moist, well-draining soil pH of 6.5.

A gentle note to readers: Bugleweed is also known to be an aggressive spreading plant if not contained properly. Be careful not to let Bugleweed spread into turf grass areas as it will try to take over!

You Must Be Wondering, So What Are Bugleweeds Even Good For?

1. Bugleweeds are good at filling large, shaded areas where lawn turf is difficult to cultivate and grow
   
2. Bugleweeds work wonders on slopes, around trees and shrubs (especially around and within rock attractions)
   
3. They are great for erosion control! Bugleweeds extensive root system and above-ground system create a dense mat that will displace weeds and prevent soil erosion!

Furthermore, these shrubs can tolerate full sun to partial shade areas in your garden. So they’re versatile!

Bugleweeds Offer Beautiful Colors

Before you decide on the specific species, make sure you explore the general color scheme for your garden and the rest of your garden plants so that it accentuates your birch tree, luckily Bugleweeds offer beautiful colors that you will love!

If you are looking for great colors in their foliage, that grow well in the shade of a birch tree, Bugleweeds will work wonders. With newly planted bugleweed, you need to make sure the soil is moist and well-watered until the plant establishes itself. They love 1-2 inches of water a week (this includes rainfall).

That means, don’t overwater if you have a rainy month after you plant your bugleweed.

Allegheny Spurge Is Great For Under Birch Trees

Pachysandra procumbens is in fact a very popular groundcover plants that are found under trees.

This herbaceous perennial, ground covering shrubs spread across a landscape with rhizomes. They grow up to 12 inches in height, but their width is determined by how much it spreads. It requires adequate water initially when the plant getting established.

Allegheny Spurge are great for growing under birch trees – and once it’s established, it’s a very strong plant that will do well in low maintenance. These plants are drought-tolerant so you don’t have to worry about it after its established itself in your garden.

Although they can tolerate various soil conditions, they prefer acidic soil, that’s well-draining and rich in moisture and organic matter. These shrubs can survive in USDA zones 5 – 9.

Allegheny Spurge prefer partial to full shade in terms of sunlight, and are generally low maintenance shrubs. And a really cool fact about them is that if you want to share a bit of your Allegheny spurge shrub, you can propagate by root division and cuttings, so no worries!

Bulbous Flowering Plants Are Perfect For Under Your Birch Tree

There are a bunch of bulbous plants that would work perfectly under your birch tree – let’s talk about them below!

Hellebores

These evergreen flowering plants are lovingly also called “winter rose”, “Christmas rose” and sometimes “Lenten rose”. While they originated in Europe and Asia, these can now be found in landscape gardens, and are perfect for under your birch tree!

Hellebores can grow in USDA zones 5-8. They are specifically interesting for gardeners due to their late winter and early spring flowering. They also make good flowering plants because their flowers are frost resistant.

These evergreen plants love well-drained and adequately watered soil and partial shade in the garden – perfect for under your birch tree.

Be careful about having pets wander around these plants. Their flowers can be toxic. Luckily, due to their toxicity these plants are resistant to deer and other critters.

Snowdrops

This group of beautiful perennial plants are part of the Galanthus genus. Snowdrops are known to have linear leaves and small white drooping flowers that look like bells and will look amazing under your birch tree.

Surprisingly, these plants flower generally in the winter, early spring, and sometimes late fall. If you look at these plants in a garden, you will notice that they look like a beautiful carpet of white flowers. It almost blends into the snow! Perfect for winter snowfall.

Not surprising based on their name, snowdrop plants prefer colder climates over warmer winters. If you live in any of the warmer areas like Texas, California, or even in Florida, Snowdrop plants may not be the best option for your garden.

Tips For Caring For Snowdrops

Before buying your snowdrops, make sure to assess how you want to develop your garden around the birch tree.

Snowdrop plants don’t reproduce from seeds in gardens, they often grow with offsets from growing from the original planted bulb. Once the bulbs have been planted and you wait for a couple of years, you will notice that the original bulb has a dense cluster of bulbs around it.

Snowdrops prefer well-draining and moist soil around or under your birch tree. If you plan to make a beautiful display around your birch tree, consider planting your snowdrops in a bunch of up to 20 bulbs.

Snowdrops are best when planted in early fall. Snowdrops can remain dormant through late spring and summer. Be careful not to start digging around your birch tree. You might damage the bulbs.

Once bought, the snowdrop bulbs prefer to be immediately planted. Do not buy the snowdrop plant bulbs and wait for a longer time to plant them. If you have pets – you may want to reconsider planting snowdrops and make sure to do your research on pet friendly plants for under your birch tree before planting!

Daffodils Are A Good Flower To Plant Under Your Birch Tree

When you see these pretty flowers under your birch tree, you will have created a beautiful picture spot. Narcissus spp., generally bloom in early spring and are generally hardy, easy-growing perennial flowers.

Just like snowdrops, these are fall-planted bulbs as they bloom in your winter or early spring climate and prefer full or partial sun.

These hardy plants can generally tolerate many types of soils but grow best in well-draining, moist soil. They grow best in USDA zones 3-8. These are great additions to the area around your birch tree and can be planted by the dozens if you wanted.

Note: Be careful to make sure the soil is well-drained as these plants are susceptible to root rot because of too much water.

You can buy great these Mixed Daffodil Bulbs with yellow, white, and variations!

Bluebells Work Great For Under Your Birch Tree

Hyacinthoides are these gorgeous-looking, delicate, flowers. Like all the other flowers mentioned above, these are also bulbous plants. They prefer to grow in USDA zones 4-9. These will look amazing under your birch tree!

The Bluebell flowers grow together in clumps. Because of the weight, you will notice that once they have grown, they droop over.

Thus, the dainty-looking flower. Bluebells love moist, well-draining, yet fertilized soil. Once you have gotten a chance to plant your bluebell bulbs, make sure to properly water them.

A Few Tips To Follow When Planting Bulbs Under Your Birch Tree

1. Try to make sure there are 2-4 inches of organic matter in the soil
2. Ensure the soil does not have any weeds
3. Use tools to free the soil and dig holes like this 3 Piece Garden Set!

Tips For Bulbous Flowering Plants

1. Check it before you click it! Be extra careful about the websites that claim they are selling the best bulbs. Read reviews.

Do some careful research before committing to any seller. Not all sellers are out there with genuine ideas of what they are selling.

2. Make sure you are checking the depth at which you are planting those bulbs. It’s almost like goldilocks of plants. But too deep or too shallow and you might damage your lovely bulbs.

3. If you are planting outside, make sure the soil has no history of big pest infestations. If so, make sure you clear the soil first and then add the bulbs.

4. Make sure you plant in an area with minimal potential of standing water. Bulbs do not like standing water. Be careful during rainy periods & watch out for pools of water!

5. Depending on the bulb species, make sure you are fertilizing them properly (especially during their spring growth period). It may not be necessary to fertilize them when you plant them but watch your calendars!

Shredded Mulch Is An Alternative To Plants For Under Your Birch Tree

Of course, everyone wants to plant beautiful flowering shrubs and foliage. However, in situations where you are not able to find appropriate shrubs or flowering plants, you can consider a money-saving alternative, mulch, for under your birch tree!

It’s also quite expensive to find the appropriate flowering plant or shrub to plant around your birch tree. If you find yourself in any of these situations, you can buy Pine Bark Mulch.

According to the North Dakota State University, shredded mulch might be better for your birch tree than rock mulch. Shredded mulch can help by moderating temperatures, improving soil structure, and conserving soil moisture (among other things).

Further, mulching can provide stable soil structure for soils that lack organic matter (especially in urban areas). Mulch can also protect your birch tree roots from exposure to extreme heat or cold and provide stable soil moisture.

General Care Tips for Birch Trees

• Due to their shallow root system, they prefer soil is moist and cool (not too wet). For more information about birch tree roots check out our article on how far birch tree roots spread.
  
• According to Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, birch trees typically prefer mostly acidic soil (pH < 6.8).
  
• Although they can prefer wide range of soil types, they prefer slightly lower pH levels
  
• In terms of fertilizers, your best bet is the low-nitrogen ones (i.e., 11-22-22 formulas)
  
• Since birch trees don’t have dense foliage, these are excellent candidates to have additional companion plants below their branches.

Closing Thoughts

Planting birch trees in your garden can provide a beautiful, picturesque view, but companion plants beneath your birches can be an eye-catcher! When it comes to companion plants, make sure that they don’t take away your birch spotlight.

Due to their shallow root system, make sure to take all of this into consideration before you finalize your species!

If for any reason you feel uncomfortable taking care of your birch tree, don’t hesitate to reach out to local horticulturists and arborists! Try your local plant store.

Happy planting!

References:

Clausen, Knud E.; Godman, Richard M. 1967. Selecting superior yellow birch trees; a preliminary guide. Research Paper NC-20. St. Paul, MN: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, North Central Forest Experiment Station

Herbaceous Perennial Plants: A Treatise on their Identification, Culture, and Garden Attributes.3 rd Ed. A. Armitage. 2008. Stipes Publishing, IL

Birch trees are a very popular choice for landowners, especially since they make great ornamental trees. They can be quite messy, though, thanks to several natural traits that lead to some sticky situations. No worries, though, there are many solutions to keep your yard clean in the wake of a birch tree!

Birch trees produce large amounts of sap, which attract insects that produce honeydew. This honeydew attracts insects such as ants, wasps, and sugar loving insects to your yard. Birch trees also shed their bark extremely easily, leaving bark scattered on the ground near the tree.

To understand more about birch trees, we’ll first explain what type of tree it is before we dive into the ways that the tree creates a mess. Next, we’ll discuss how to provide general care to keep it healthy and how you can quickly clean your yard. So, let’s get into it!

What Exactly Is A Birch Tree?

A birch tree is a hardwood tree, and a deciduous one, which means that it loses its leaves during the months of the year that get colder. Not to worry, it blooms again in the spring before cycling back through the process again the next year!

Enough of what a birch tree is, though, let’s get into the real topic of this piece- the messiness of birch trees.

Why The Heck Are Birch Trees So Messy?

In case you weren’t yet sure, or are thinking of getting a birch tree and landed here, we can confirm that birch trees are, in fact, quite messy. 

How so, you may ask? 

Well above all else, these trees can get sticky.

Birch Trees Produce SO MUCH SAP

According to the University of Vermont, birches, river birches, in particular, are ‘bleeders’ meaning that they release large amounts of sap. 

Open wounds on the tree can lead to a heavy flow of this sap that can cause some secondary concerns such as attracting bugs and making it messy to clean up.

Birch trees’ continuous seeping of the sap creates a sticky situation that landowners may come to see as quite a pain.

The sap and its mess are not the only concerns though. The sticky substance that comes from birch trees does more than create surface-level messes for you to deal with. It also attracts bugs that cause a whole new set of worries.

Something super cool – you can actually harvest birch tree sap for syrup!

Birch Tree Sap Attracts Bugs And Insects

Speaking of bugs and sap, the cycle of attraction can become neverending rather quickly. 

Aphids are insects that like to suck on sap from trees. Well, not only does this sap attract aphids, but those aphids actually produce a secretion of their own, too. 

Known as honeydew, this secretion can cause decay and even types of mold if left to sit on a tree for too long. 

So, aside from sticky scenarios, is there anything else that causes substantial mess when it comes to birch trees?

Yes, in fact, there is!

Birch Trees Shed An Incredible Amount Of Bark

Not only are there concerns regarding stickiness and insects, but also of bark shedding in your yard. Even the trunk itself seems to shed its bark. 

Why is this?

While young branches appear to be very smooth with a thin layer of bark intact, older branches and the trunk begin to appear quite weathered. The bark will shrivel and peel until it falls off, is knocked off by animals, or is blown off by the wind. 

Are the extremities of birch trees weak, or is this just the nature of the tree?

According to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, this is not because twigs and branches are brittle, but actually, it’s just the opposite.

The branches are not prone to wind or ice damage because of their strength, so die-back occurs in the outermost parts of the tree, the bark.

These die-back areas will shrivel and peel easily, creating a mess in the space beneath. 

Now, you combine this with readily-flowing sap and some bugs that also produce a sticky secretion, and you’ve got a real mess on your hands. While the bark peels off on its own, you should never try peel it off, you can learn more about why you shouldn’t peel birch tree bark in our in-depth piece.

Before we get into how to clean up your yard and maintain a space that feels in your control, let’s briefly talk about what to know when it’s time to grow!

Things To Consider When Planting Birch Trees To Limit The Mess

There are a few things to consider when growing a strong, healthy birch tree.

We won’t waste any time getting into it here, though, so follow along!

Think About Soil

Birch trees do well in damp soil, but can also thrive in soil that is drier as long as enough water gets through to it, at the end of the day.

The real factor to consider when thinking about soil is the nutrients that it may be able to provide your tree.

Where To Plant

If you are just getting started, it’s important to know that birch trees thrive when they get as much sunlight as possible on their canopy.

Shade from a building may not end the tree, but it certainly won’t be doing it any favors.

If you can help it, ensure that your birch tree gets at least 6 hours of full sunlight a day to keep growing successfully.

Check out our guide for the best places to plant a birch tree if you’d like to learn more.

Keeping Weeds Away

Now, this may seem simple, but you’d be surprised by how many people overlook this easy step. 

Weeds suck the nutrients, water, and other essentials from being given to your tree, and can quickly wreak havoc. Instead of spraying down a product, I highly recommend that you pick weeds out by hand – just make sure to get all the roots!

Keeping weeds away is a great bridge between keeping your tree healthy and your yard maintained.

On that note, though, let’s talk about how to avoid the mess now that you’re keeping your tree healthy and stable!

How To Keep Your Yard Clean With An Established Birch Tree

There are a few things that you can do to decrease the level of mess that your birch tree creates. 

You don’t have to work super hard to avoid a catastrophic yard. In fact, we want to give you some of our simplest solutions so that you can go about your days knowing that things are taken care of.

Wash Your Tree To Limit Sap Build Up

Back up… wash a tree?

Yes, you read that right!

Birch trees, and other species, can be washed to get some of that sticky sap removed. 

This is a great preventative method when it comes to keeping insects and animals away and keeping your tree from getting so stuck in sap that it begins to decay. 

All around it’s a win-win. 

So, how should you go about this?

Great question!

According to the US Forest Service, the honeydew secreted by aphids is neither easily nor permanently removed, but there is a solution.

You can use a soft sponge, loofah, or other gentle-bristled cleaning supplies to apply a small amount of a soap-and-water mixture to the tree where there is an excessive amount of sap or secretion. 

This is not something you’ll need to do regularly, but in order to maintain appearances and give your tree some special attention, this can be quite beneficial.

Keep Bugs Away From Your Birch

If aphids, or other insects attracted to your birch’s sap, are causing you issues, another solution is to use an insecticide to minimize the issue. 

Realistically, bugs will always be drawn to the sap – so I’m using this point to reiterate to clean the sap! Just don’t scrub too hard. Cleaning the sap will help keeps bugs away from your birch tree and yard altogether.

So, what is the final step we can take to keep a clean yard?

Rake Up The Shedding Birch Tree Bark

As the bark-shedding is a natural occurrence for birch trees, you’ll likely need to either rake the fallen branch bits or leave them on the soil.

Eventually, this organic tree matter will decompose and help nourish your tree once again.

However, we know that the appearance of shriveled bark laying around is not always the most sightly yard decor. So, if you’re looking to rake the bark away, try using a 63” Garden Leaf Rake for a quick and easy clean-up that won’t damage the soil or your tree.

Thanks For Sticking Around!

Get it? Because of the sap…and the honeydew?

Thanks for hanging out and learning about why birch trees are so messy and what you can do to keep your yard looking fresh and ready for anything!

May your birch tree produce no more than the usual amounts of sap, and may your tree journey continue developing as you learn and grow along with your trees.

See you next time, friends!

References

Cliff, E. P. (1969). Our birch resources. In Birch symposium proceedings (pp. 19-27).

REY, A., & JARVIS, P. G. (1997). Growth Response of Young Birch Trees (Betula pendulaRoth.) After Four and a Half Years of CO2Exposure. Annals of Botany, 80(6), 809-816.

Though you may not know the names of many trees, most people can instantly recognize birch trees because of their distinctive beauty. But as an ornamental tree found in nurseries everywhere, can birch trees grow well in locations other than riverbanks? 

The river birch grows along riverbanks naturally, but they actually can be planted nearly anywhere in the United States. Birch trees are rapid-growing, hardwood trees that are naturally tolerant and grow best in wet areas. Once established, birch trees do best as landscape trees in acidic soil.

If you would like to own some of that beauty for your property, we will show you the best places to plant birch trees and where they grow the best!

What Is A Birch Tree?

Birch trees are short-lived, fast-growing trees known for their distinctive bark patterns that originate from cooler regions of the northern hemisphere. They are used as ornamental trees as well as for lumber, and the papery bark has many uses, including pharmaceuticals. 

Birch trees are prized for their stunning visual appeal throughout all seasons compared to most ornamental trees who only show off their innate beauty during Fall. The unique, white, curling bark of the birch tree looks amazing in any season, especially in Winter.

They have picturesque white bark that often is seen peeling off in large sheets contrasting with bold green saw-toothed leaves and are usually seen growing along riverbanks or streams.

Younger trees show off the characteristic peeling bark, but as they mature the lower regions of the trunk bark grow thicker into deeply furrowed, brown plates. All birch trees exhibit “toothy” outer edges on their leaves. 

There are about 40 different varieties of birch trees from the iconic river birch that you’ve probably seen along rivers or creeks, to paper birch, and silver birch to name a few. For this article we will be focusing on the most popular birch varieties that are native to the United States, and where they grow the best.

If yuo were wondering more about paper birch, that’s the type with all the flakey bark! And no, you shouldn’t peel birch tree bark off if you see it flaking.

Do Birch Trees Only Grow on Riverbanks?

Birch trees can grow in a variety of places, not just along riverbanks. While the aptly named river birch does grow naturally along riverbanks and they easily establish themselves on their own, they can grow in many other areas. 

Most birch trees need plenty of water when they are first planted, but once it is established, it will grow well in most areas and soils.

They do need plenty of sunlight in the canopy but also require a bit of cool shade and moist soil for the roots. This can be accomplished by planting ground covers, low-growing flowers, or a thick mulch bed to protect the shallow roots from getting too much sun. 

What Climate Does A Birch Tree Grow Well In?

Birch trees are native to cooler regions of the Northern Hemisphere like Europe, Canada, the USA, and the Himalayas. They can handle colder temperatures, but unless they are native to warmer climates they may not do as well in the farther southern regions. In the US birch trees tolerate winters as far north as zone 2 and can withstand summers as far south as zone 7. 

Birch trees can tolerate extreme cold climates and are able to survive temperatures colder than -40F. They are supremely adapted to tolerate and exploit the harsh conditions of northern ecosystems that make most other trees (and people for that matter!) tap out.

Birch Trees Don’t Do Well In Drought

Birch trees have shallow roots that require a lot of water, especially when they are starting. They do well in areas that get a lot of rain or low-lying areas where water accumulates, but they can’t handle being wet all the time.

Once a birch tree has had a chance to be well established, it is relatively drought-resistant, but it can’t handle the dry, hot climes of the deep south. 

Here Are The Best Places To Plant Birch Trees

Birch trees can grow in many places, with varying types of soil and water conditions; they don’t have to be along the banks of lakes and rivers to thrive. Here are 9 of the best places to plant birch trees!

Birch Trees Thrive In Areas With Full Sun

Birch trees need a lot of sun! At least 6 hours of full sun is needed to keep birch trees happy, but at the same time, you have to protect the roots and keep them shaded. There are several reasons why birch trees can’t grow in shade, so if you have areas in your yard or along with your property that get a lot of sun, that’s a good place to plant a birch tree (and have a picnic with your family of course!).

In the article, “How to Grow and Maintain a Healthy Birch Tree”, the USDA suggests that homeowners should place birch trees where the soil will be shaded, cool, and moist. It’s important to remember, however, that birch trees require full to partial sunshine on their leaves to grow well.

Birch trees send out sprawling lines of shallow roots that need to be protected from the strong sun. The ideal place to plant a birch tree if you have the structure is the north or east side of the building. This way your birch will get at least 6 hours of sunlight, and the roots stay cool and protected.

If you don’t have a building to prevent the sun from pounding the root system, you can simply mulch around the tree, or plant something along the base of the tree that will protect the roots. 

Bulbs work well to protect the shallow roots of birches as well as low-lying ground covers like vinca, ornamental grasses, or other plants that don’t require deep soil to thrive in.

Fun Fact: did you know that black birch is one of the hottest burning firewoods?

Birch Trees Do Well Along Creeks Or Riverbanks

Birch trees grow well along riverbanks or other areas of running water. If you have a creek or river running through your property, you could plant a line of birch trees along the water’s edge. You will have a picturesque scene of unmatched natural beauty on your property!

When planting them, make sure the tree is back enough away from the bank that it won’t end up falling in. They love water, but aren’t the best swimmers! You may have to water them a bit for the first year, but once they have established themselves, they will find plenty of moisture from the river. 

Birch Trees Like To Be Near Ponds

Do you have a natural pond on your property? Why not plant a few birch trees near the pond to offer some shade to the area and add an extra dose of beauty to the area. Only plant birch trees near natural water features, and not on ponds or fountains that you have spent a lot of money and time on as they can damage them. 

If you have landscaped a pond or water feature on your property, planting a birch tree nearby is not recommended. Birch trees are known for seeking out water, and they could puncture the liner in that quest to find water.

Also, when Autumn hits, many of the falling leaves will get into the pond and possibly clog up the pumps or even harm fish or other animals if you have them!

Plant Birch Trees In A Landscape

Do you have a landscaped area of flowers and decorative shrubs, but you just need something more to top it off and make the area pop? Maybe you should think about planting a birch tree there! If the canopy can get plenty of sun, this could be a perfect place to plant a birch tree because you already have plenty of vegetation that will serve to protect the roots. 

If you have plants that work well with shade or semi-shade, a birch tree could go well there because, after a short time, the canopy will spread out and provide a nice area of shade for your shade-loving plants. 

Birch Trees Make A Beautiful Centerpiece

The beauty of birch trees with their striking white bark and light, airy canopy is the perfect specimen for centerpieces in your garden or landscaping. Birch trees grow fast, so in a few years, you will have a mature tree centerpiece. Add in some low-growing shrubs or flowers to contrast or accentuate the whitebark and you will have a stunning centerpiece in your garden!

Just be careful not to plant birch trees too close to sidewalks as the shallow roots could eventually crack or lift the concrete. Also, before planting, check to make sure there are no water pipes or drainpipes anywhere near the root system. Birch tree roots will seek out the tiniest cracks and get inside where they will eventually crack or clog the pipes. 

Birch Trees Prefer Areas With Acidic Soil

Birch trees prefer acidic soil of 6.5 to 5.0 on the pH scale while most lawns prefer a neutral 7.0 pH.

So, if you have an area of your yard or garden that is more on the acidic side, and you just can’t get grass to grow well there, don’t alter the acidity, simply plant a birch tree there instead!

Plant Birch Trees In The Wet Areas Of Your Garden

Other places that are great to plant birch trees are wet garden areas. Do you have an area in your garden that just seems to stay too wet for much of anything else to grow?

If you have an area that is simply too damp and other plants you put there drown or get root rot, try setting a birch tree there. 

Maybe the area is a little lower than the rest of the garden. Possibly there is a lot of clay in the ground that holds water longer than other areas.

Whatever the reason for the extra wet area, it would be a great place to plant some birch trees. Birch trees can tolerate wet areas well and will help with the soggy problem. 

Birch Trees Do Well In Low-Lying Wet Areas That Gather Water

Birch trees can also do well in that low-lying area in the back of your yard (or front, or side) that always seems to be soggy and swampy whenever it rains.

Your grass out there is always struggling because of the water that pools up out there, and as soon as someone walks across it, you have a muddy mess. You could clear that area up with a few birch trees!

You don’t have to hire an expensive excavator to regrade the area or have truckloads of fill dirt piled in the low-lying area to prevent the water from pooling up and messing up your yard. Instead, think about planting birch trees to take care of that area naturally.

It never hurts to plant trees. Not only are they pleasing to the eye, and provide shade and shelter for birds and other small animals but they also help to remove carbon dioxide from the air!

Birch Trees Can Be Planted In Sandy Soil

If you have very sandy soil, you know there aren’t many plants or trees that will grow in the loose soil, unless of course, you love to have spiky cactus all over. But then again, if your area is too wet, even the cactus will have a hard time surviving. 

Birch trees with their shallow, sprawling roots love loose, quick-draining, sandy soil. If you mulch up the leaves that drop each year and leave them to degrade into the soil you will also help to condition the soil for further plantings as time passes.

The leaves will break down and provide missing nutrients than sandy soil usually doesn’t have. 

If there is an area that is too sandy for anything else to grow well, then it’s probably a perfect place to set a few birch trees there. 

Are Birch Trees Actually Good for Yards?

Well, that depends on what type of yard you have. Birch trees are fast-growing trees but are also one of the shortest-lived of the hardwoods.

In the early years, birch trees will shoot up fast, often 20 to 40 feet high. If you plan on planting them in your yard, make sure they are not too close to your house, or near power lines as they will have to get cut back.

Some people think that planting birch trees in clumps of three tends to prevent the trees from reaching their maximum height. The thinking is because the roots are shallow and widespread, with three birch trees in a small area, the roots have to compete amongst themselves and stunt their growth.

If your yard has an irrigation system or you have a lot of water pipes running through your yard, you’d be better off not planting birch trees in your yard. Birch trees, like willows, have strong and aggressive roots that will seek out water wherever. Metal or plastic pipes are no match for the roots of the birch, as they will infiltrate any tiny joint or crack. 

If you have a small yard with lots of pipes running through the ground or a lot of overhead hazards then birch trees are not a great fit for you. 

Alternatively, if you have a wide-open space free from overhead lines and in-ground plumbing, then the space would be great for a birch tree or more. Birch trees don’t grow huge, but they can get 30 to 40 feet tall, and need to be a minimum of 20 feet away from your house.

Birch Trees: Are They Able To Grow Just Anywhere?

While birch trees come from cooler climates and love wet, well-drained soil, with the proper care they can grow just about anywhere. The main hindrances to growing birch trees are heat and drought. 

The USDA write up on the Paper Birch sums up where birch trees can grow best by stating that due to the trees overall genetic makeup, the paper birch grows can grow on almost any soil. Specifically, they state it can grow from “steep rocky outcrops of the mountains to flat muskegs of the boreal forest (Histosols)”.

Pretty wild stuff!

Birch trees can grow in wet areas, sandy or clay soils, areas of higher acidity, and love full sunlight as long as the temperature doesn’t get hot enough to bake the roots. Once the trees are established, they become more drought tolerant because of the shallow root system.

Precautions To Take Before Planting Birch Trees

Birch trees are beautiful in their own right and can make stunning additions to your property, but with planting any tree, some careful considerations need to be made before you plant. 

Water Lines and Irrigation 

As we stated earlier, birch roots will seek out water. Front yards usually have water supply lines and sewage lines underground. Irrigation lines for watering lawns and landscapes have become increasingly popular as well. If your yard has any of these pipes in your yard, it’s not advised to plant birch trees in this area. 

The roots of birch trees can spread far and are determined to get into the never-ending supply of water. Make sure you check for water lines before planting birch trees. 

Overhead Power Lines

You also shouldn’t plant birch trees near overhead power lines, streetlights, or other overhead hazards. Birch trees grow fast and tall; if they get into the lines above, the city or county will have to cut them back. 

Sidewalks, Patios, or Other Paths

Because of the shallow, sprawling root systems of birch trees, unless you want your sidewalks, patios, or walkways to become an off-road hiking trail, don’t plant birch trees around these structures. The roots could crack the concrete, raise pavers, or otherwise disturb the smooth surface creating trip hazards, and unsightly cracks. 

Wrapping It Up!

You may have noticed the peeling bark, and rough-edged oval leaves of birch trees along rivers and parks and wondered if you too could have something like that in your garden. Well now you know you can, and you know where you can plant these cold-loving deciduous trees where they will grow the best. 

Some of the best areas to plant birch trees are:

1. Areas with full sun
2. Near creeks or riverbanks
3. Near ponds
4. In a landscape
5. As a centerpiece to a garden
6. Areas you have acidic soil 
7. Wet spots in the garden
8. Low lying areas that gather water
9. In sandy soil

Birch trees are prized for their distinctive looks, and captivating beauty through all the seasons, and are a very fast-growing tree. They grow great in nearly all types of soil conditions with the proper care, meaning you can enjoy that papery magnificence all year round in your yard and property.

If you have sandy soil, wet soil, normal soil, or acidic soil, a birch tree will love it as long as the leaves get plenty of sun, and the roots stay cool and moist, you too can grace your yard with the beauty of the birch tree. 

Best of luck on your tree journey! 

References:

Lachowicz, H., Sajdak, M., Paschalis-Jakubowicz, P., Cichy, W., Wojtan, R., & Witczak, M. (2018). The influence of location, tree age and forest habitat type on basic fuel properties of the wood of the silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) in Poland. BioEnergy Research, 11(3), 638-651.

Beck, P., Caudullo, G., de Rigo, D., & Tinner, W. (2016). Betula pendula, Betula pubescens and other birches in Europe: distribution, habitat, usage and threats.

Perala DA, Alm AA. (1990). Reproductive ecology of birch: a review. Forest Ecology and Management 32: 1-38.

Birch trees are typically prized for their lovely, papery, peeling, oftentimes white bark, and lush green foliage. But the ornamental yard trees are starting to gain popularity with syrup makers and hobbyists alike because they are relatively easy to tap.

If you are tapping birch trees for sap, you need to start before the buds on the trees begin to sprout. For most areas, that time is around mid-March to late April. Unlike maple sap which is quite sweet, birch sap has a more watery consistency with a woody, slightly sweet flavor when reduced.

You know now that birch trees, just like maple trees can be tapped to obtain delicious sap, and eventually boiled down into tasty syrup, but there are many things you should know before delving into this project. Keep reading to find out more about birch sap, how to cook it down into syrup, and how to tap the trees correctly.

Can You Even Tap A Birch Tree?

I’d tap that tree! Yes you can, and not only birch trees—any variety of birch trees can be tapped.

In fact—you can also tap walnut, beech, and alder trees as well as many more. Tree tapping supplies are readily available online, and with a small initial cost, you can begin tapping trees for sap consumption, syrup, and other products!

When Is The Best Time To Tap A Birch Tree?

If you have tapped or still do tap maple trees, then you can jump right into birch tree sap collecting directly after maple sap season is over.

Once winter’s tight grip has loosened and the nights and days are no longer dipping into freezing temps, the sap inside birch trees starts to thaw and it’s time to tap. Depending on what area you live in, that time could be between mid-March to the latter weeks of April. 

A better indication is when the tree still has tiny buds on the branches but has not sprouted leaves yet. When you tap a birch tree you will soon know if the sap is starting to run or not.

A healthy birch tree during the tapping season will net you about a gallon of sap per day. If your tree is not producing any sap yet, and the leaves haven’t sprouted, give it a little time, the sap may still be thawing out. 

For a cheap tapping option, consider the TAP MY TREES Spile And Hook as it’s a great budget start to birch tapping!

Find Healthy Birch Trees For The Best Sap

You want to look for birch trees that have a large canopy, get plenty of full sunlight and are at the very least 8” in diameter. They should be healthy trees without a lot of broken, dead branches, and do not have any mushrooms growing on the branches or trunk.

Those trees are dying and have a lot of deadwood on them. Birch trees don’t typically live very long compared to oak trees, or elms which both can live for hundreds of years. 

If you are a beginner at foraging and using wild trees, consider getting a book such as the National Geographic: Field Guide To Trees Of North America.

Other trees to be avoided are ones located where pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals are used or sprayed. Keep away from trees lining roadways because they will have absorbed a lot of chemicals from sprays and chemical-laden water runoff along the roadways themselves.

For more information on what a proper birch tree looks like, take a look at our piece on how far birch tree roots spread!

How To Tap A Birch Tree

Now that you have picked out your healthy, mature tree that’s free of pesticides, petroleum chemicals, and other hazardous gunk, let’s get to the good part. You will need a drill and bit the size of your tap or spile. You’ll also need a hammer or rubber mallet to tap the spile in, as well as collection buckets, preferably with lids to keep out debris and bugs. 

If you have tapped other trees like maple trees, then the same equipment you used for them will work for tapping birch trees. If you don’t have the equipment, Amazon.com has plenty of tree sap collecting kits or individual pieces you may need to get started. 

You just want to make sure your equipment is thoroughly cleaned to prevent any cross-contamination. Make sure anything that is cutting, drilling, or being inserted into the trees, or touches the resulting sap is cleaned and disinfected. 

Collecting sap from birch trees is similar to collecting sap from maple trees. Birch sap is quite different from maple sap because it contains simple sugars, fructose, and glucose, as opposed to the complex sucrose found in maple sap. Birch sap also differs in chemical composition.

Pick A Spot And Drill A Hole

Pick a spot on the tree about 3 to 4 feet above the ground, and preferably on the northern or eastern side of the tree to prevent too much sun from hitting the fresh sap. Make sure your spiles and drill bits are sterilized using rubbing alcohol or by boiling them first and drilling one hole per tree. 

For regular drilling, most people recommend something like this Greenworks Hammer Drill Kit, along with something like this Liberty Supply Professional Maple Tree Tapping Bit.

The hole needs to be at a slight, upward angle. No more than 20-30 degrees. If it’s too steep, the full bucket could pull the tap right out of the tree. Only drill about an inch to an inch and a half deep into the tree—where you’re reaching the sapwood. Any deeper and you can injure the tree and you won’t collect much sap. 

Look Out For Dark Wood

If you get dark brown shavings while drilling, go pick another tree because this one is diseased or dying. The shavings should be very light-colored or white. 

Now, clean out the hole with clean water if there are any shavings left, and gently tap in the spile. Attach the bucket and you’re good to go.

If the sap doesn’t immediately start to flow, be patient. You can go tap another tree then come back to check or check again tomorrow. Once the sap is flowing, just make sure to collect it each day because it will net a lot in a short time.

A Few Side Notes About Birch Sap

You can drink the sap right away. Birch sap is considered a health drink in many countries and does contain many vitamins and minerals. Be sure to filter the sap first to remove any debris or impurities that could have fallen into the collection bucket.

Although most sap collecting equipment is now made of stainless steel or plastic, some older equipment may be composed of copper. You shouldn’t use anything copper when collecting birch tree sap. Birch sap is acidic enough to corrode copper.

Make Harvesting Birch Sap A Family Affair

Tapping a birch tree, or any tree for that matter could be a fun activity for everyone in the family. It’s a great lesson for younger kids to teach them about how nature can provide for us, and respect trees and nature even more. Even though it’s still probably a bit chilly out, tapping birch trees is a great outdoor fun project.

Who knows, this undertaking could help them with a school project or essay if they happen to be studying trees or forests.

How Often Can You Tap A Birch Tree?

Maple trees are hardy plants that can endure being tapped nearly every year. Unfortunately, birch trees are a bit more fragile and probably won’t do well if they are tapped year after year.

After A Few Seasons, Give Your Birch Tree A Rest

You only want to drill one hole per year in a birch tree. Don’t worry though because if the tree is large and healthy, you will end up with gallons of sap per tree. You should only tap a birch tree about 3 years in a row, then give the tree a rest.

When drilling a hole for sap the following year, you’ll need to pick another spot. From the original hole, move to the right or left between 4 to 6 inches, and a few inches above. Refrain from drilling completely around the tree, as this is called girdling the tree, and it will not be able to heal itself.

Since birch trees are not as strong as maples, this is just another reason to stay vigilant about equipment cleaning and disinfecting. The trees do heal themselves from the drilled holes, but extra cleanliness won’t hurt at all.

Does Tapping Hurt Birch Trees?

Tapping does not hurt the tree if it is done in moderation, with clean equipment, and handled the right way. Even though birch trees are not as hardy as some other trees, that does not mean they can’t deal with getting tapped. Once you are finished collecting sap from the tree, remove the spile and the tree will soon close the hole itself.

The tree is going through a growth phase after winter, and will often heal a tap hole very quickly. As long as you only drill one hole per sap season, and then give the tree rest for a season or two after up to three taps, the tree will continue to grow and be healthy.

What To Do With Birch Tree Sap

You’ve collected gallons of sap per birch tree, now what can you do with it all? First off you need to figure out what to do with it quickly because birch sap is quite perishable. It will remain fresh for up to 7 days if refrigerated, longer if you freeze it.

According to the USDA Forest Service: Birch sap is becoming commercialized in Alaska where people are using sap and syrup to make candies, salad dressing, marinades, and even ice cream.

Ferment The Birch Sap

If you have the know-how and equipment, birch sap can be fermented into birch wine, birch beer, or even into birch mead.

Birch beer—the non-alcoholic kind that’s similar to root beer—is probably the most prevalent of beverages. Here the sap is processed, essential oils are added as well as carbonation and sugar to make a fizzy, spicy drink that carries flavors of spices, and wintergreen.

Boil Birch Sap Into Syrup

The most popular use for birch sap, after drinking it straight, is cooking it down into syrup. Birch syrup is very different in flavor from maple syrup because of the significantly smaller amount of sugar found in birch sap. Birch syrup is said to have an earthy, almost savory-sweet flavor that goes well on meats, in glazes, and marinades.

It takes remarkably more birch sap to craft syrup compared to maple sap. Where it takes approximately 30-40 gallons of maple sap to make 1 gallon of syrup, it can take 100 to 200 gallons to make a single gallon of birch syrup. With such high water content, and alternately low—and easily burned—sugar content, it can be difficult to make good-tasting birch syrup.

Birch Sap Is Perishable

When the sap does start pouring out of your tap, you’ll need to collect it daily, as the temperatures during this time will be warmer than maple sap season, and because birch sap is more perishable than maple sap. Birch sap will last about 7 days under refrigeration before it starts to ferment. If you are going to use birch sap, do so quickly.

If you don’t have the time to cook the sap promptly or you want to store it longer, you can freeze it, this way it will last a much longer time.

Be careful though, because if you plan on freezing the sap, make sure you have plenty of space. If you tap 5 or 6 trees, you could potentially harvest a gallon of sap per tree, per day, for 3 to 4 weeks. That’s a lot of sap!

Tips For Making Birch Syrup

Birch sap contains glucose and fructose sugars in small amounts. Those types of sugars will burn quickly if heated too high or for too long, leaving you with a caramelized tar-like substance that does not taste good. You’ll have to adopt a low and slow process to make delicious birch syrup.

Birch sap needs to be evaporated slowly to produce the best flavors. Most commercial birch syrup manufacturers use reverse osmosis to create the best syrup. Small birch syrup outfits don’t have access to that kind of equipment because of the hefty price tag, so they have to do it the old-fashioned way.

Boiling birch sap will create a lot of moisture because there is a lot of liquid that needs to be cooked off. Be prepared for this. If you plan on cooking a lot of birch sap, you might want to set up some kind of outside rig, say like a turkey fryer.

Get Out There And Start Tapping

You don’t have to have a lot of expensive equipment or be a big tree tapping operation to start collecting your own healthy birch tree sap. You don’t have to be a survivalist or homesteader either. Anyone can tap birch trees for sap if you know what you’re doing, and when to get started.

If you are interested in creating a home grown birch grove for tapping, check out this troubleshooting article on 4 Reasons Why Birch Trees Can’t Grow In The Shade!

You know, the air is crisp, the trees haven’t started budding quite yet, what are you waiting for? You now know when the best time to tap birch trees is, you know how to collect the sap, and you have several different ways to use the sap. Get out there and tap those birch trees.

References:

Jeong, S.-J., Lee, C.-H., Kim, H.-Y., Lee, S.-H., Hwang, I.-G., Shin, C.-S., … Jeong, H.-S. (2012, January 31). Quality Characteristics of the White Birch Sap with Varying Collection Periods. Journal of the Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition. The Korean Society of Food Science and Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.3746/jkfn.2012.41.1.143

Trummer, Lori; Malone, Tom. United States Department of Agriculture, US Forest Service Alaska Region, State and Private Forestry Forest Health Protection, Anchorage Office. Some impacts to paper birch trees tapped for sap harvesting in Alaska. 10/02/2022 16:09:22. http://hdl.handle.net/11122/3198

Abby K. Van Den Berg, Mark L. Isselhardt, Timothy D. Perkins. March 2018. Identifying Sustainable Practices for Tapping and Sap Collection from Birch Trees: Optimum Timing of Tapping Initiation and the Volume of Nonconductive Wood Associated with Taphole Wounds

You may recognize a birch tree from its characteristic peeling white and red bark when you’re out for a walk. Just how far do birch tree roots actually spread?

Birch tree roots spread as far as the tree grows wide and create an intensive mat of roots 4-8 inches thick below the soil surface and spread 20-40 feet as they mature, leading to issues with underground structures. In general, a birch tree’s root system doubles in size during its first year alone.

Although birch trees get a bad rep for their root systems, they are not as bad as they are made out to be! We are here to help you avoid any issues with your birch tree, established or newly planted. Keep reading for birch tree tips and to find out more about how far birch tree roots spread!

Just How Large Are Birch Tree Root Systems?

Birch trees have extremely large root systems. They form a 4-8 inch thick mat of far spreading roots directly underneath the soil to catch all the water possible.

Now, I know we said that before but thats 4-8 inches THICK. That’s wild!

They also extend to the width of the tree canopy. The tree canopy or crown is the term used to describe the width of the top of the tree and the circumference of how far the branches reach. 

Underneath the surface, the thick root mat extends to the drip line of the tree canopy. The drip line or drip zone is the area directly under the outer edge of the tree canopy, where excess water runs off the branches and leaves and falls to the ground. A likely place to expect water-loving roots to reach!

Did you know the drip zone area is where the roots absorb the most water? The drip line or drip zone area is usually seen as a ring in the soil around the plant where runoff accumulates and the roots soak up. 

According to the University of Berkeley, the drip line or ring area found in the soil is also called the Critical Root Zone (CRZ) or the Root Protection Zone (RPZ). This area is home to 85% of a tree’s roots, which draw in nutrients and water to the rest of the roots and tree.

The crowns of birch trees can be anywhere from 20-40 feet wide, and even wider in some cases! This means there is an intensely woven network of roots just as wide hiding beneath the surface! So yes, birch tree roots spread quite far.

Now, let’s dive deep into the nitty-gritty of where birch tree roots grow the most.

What Soil Do Birch Tree Roots Grow In?

We have already hinted that birch tree roots spread pretty far in the above section, but lets get into more of the nitty gritty here.

Although we mentioned above birch tree roots can double in size within the first year of growth, you do not have to worry about a birch tree taking over your home.

Generally, you find birch trees growing near water sources, along rivers, in shade, or wooded areas. Can you guess why? They love water! 

Birch trees are moisture-loving trees that grow in a highly organic and loamy soil. Loamy soil is fertile and slow draining, consisting of sand, silt, and clay, so it holds moisture for a much longer time than strictly sandy soil. So if you have ever been to upstate New York, where the soil consists of clay, sand, and silt, chances are you have seen these trees!

Do Birch Tree Roots Cause Problems?

Now that we have covered just how far birch tree roots spread, let’s get into the question that everyone wants to know the answer to. Do birch tree roots cause problems?

Birch tree roots can cause problems. Will they? Not always, and probably not likely. Can they? Yes, they can.

For instance, if you have a birch tree planted near underground electrical wiring, plumbing, or even a drain field for your septic, far spreading birch tree roots can potentially cause issues for all of them.

Preventing this can be as simple as planting a birch tree far enough away from your home. Planting a birch tree at least 20 feet from your home can be sufficient for some varieties, but if you are still worried, you can plant them even further from your home.

If tree roots invade your home, it is likely they are in search of water or nutrients. So initially, watering and fertilizing your tree adequately can help prevent this too.

What Are Surface Roots For Birch Trees?

If you have any large birch trees near you, you may have surface roots. This happens when roots grow through the top layer of soil and are exposed at the surface, causing tripping hazards, issues in foundations of driveways, etc. 

If surface roots become an issue, it is best to contact a tree professional to determine the best course of action for your tree. Remember that the far spreading roots of your birch tree will appear 4-8 inches below the surface in a thick mesh.

So, it’s not just a few roots spreading out BUT it’s quite a bit that will overtake the soil underneath.

A quick tip. If you have a birch tree that you’re trying to nourish, taking care of your trees means cutting back any dead, or dying limbs or branches. We like to put a plug in for one of our favorite tree trimming pole saws, Fiskars Chain Drive 7–16 Foot Extendable Pole Saw & Pruner (394631-1001).

This pole saw extends from 7 feet all the way to 16 feet tall, making it a breeze to cut high and out-of-reach branches! It cuts branches with ease, and you will not regret adding it to your tool shed!

Why You May Need To Remove Birch Tree Roots

While you could remove birch tree roots, it might be best to leave them or contact tree professionals. 

Like we mentioned before, birch tree roots can cause issues with wiring, plumbing and your septic. It’s important to know just how deep those systems are in your yard so you can avoid having to remove far spreading birch tree roots if not necessary. If deeper than a foot, you may not have to worry about any wiring, plumbing or septic systems as the birch tree roots won’t reach them or intersect.

Again however, contact a local professional who has experience in removing birch tree roots.

If you decide to take matters into your own hands and cut or remove birch tree roots, you might do significant damage to your tree and even cause dieback. Significant damage could include disease or insect infestation, causing more issues than when you started.

If you’ve already cut down your birch tree and are trying to eliminate the birch tree roots from the soil, you can check out one of our popular methods of using vinegar to eliminate tree roots.

Most Common Birch Trees That Have Far Spreading Roots

So we’re talking about birch trees, but what are some common birch trees that you might have seen or know of that also have potentially invasive, far spreading birch tree roots? Let’s jump into a few here!

Here are several common birch tree species that have far spreading, shallow roots:

• Yellow Birch, Betula alleghaniensis
• River Birch, Betula nigra
• Silver Birch, Betula pendula
• Cherry Birch, Betula lenta
• Red or Water Birch, Betula occidentalis
• Paper Birch, Betula papyrifera

Before we get into this, not all birch trees have white bark. Only a few actually do! You can read our guide on which birch trees have white bark here.

Yellow Birch, Betula alleghaniensis

The yellow birch is one of the largest hardwood trees in North America. It is easy to recognize by its yellow leaves and insane height!

The yellow birch grows 60-75 feet tall and is found in sunny and lightly shaded areas. If you live in hardiness zones 3-7, you have probably seen this tree!

River Birch, Betula nigra

The river birch is one of my favorite trees! If you live in a swampy area or near rivers, you have probably seen this tree growing naturally, with its unmistakable dark red peeling bark. It grows in hardiness zones 4-9 to a height of 40-70 feet. 

Silver Birch, Betula pendula

The silver birch grows in hardiness zones 2-6 and is known for its white peeling bark. Its leaves turn a bright yellow in the fall, and its branches grow in a beautiful pattern. This pattern is the reason for the tree’s nickname, the weeping birch.

Cherry Birch, Betula lenta

The cherry birch, also known as black birch or sweet birch, grows best in hardiness zones 3-7 and is native to Eastern North America. Its bark is very similar to a cherry tree, with lenticels along the entire bark. Unlike other birches, the cherry birch has a smooth bark appearance.

Red or Water Birch, Betula occidentalis

The red birch is commonly found in western North America at a variety of elevations, anywhere from 300-10,000 feet, mainly found in mountainous regions. It has striking dark brown and red bark with white lenticels. It is a much smaller birch tree and can take the form of a tree or a shrub, growing around 30 feet high. 

Paper Birch, Betula papyrifera

The paper birch is one of the most known birch trees there is, because of its striking bark. You can find the paper birch in hardiness zones 2-7. Not only does the paper birch have incredibly smooth bright white bark that peels off like sheets of paper, but the leaves also turn a bright yellow color in the fall.

Some people will strip the bark off of living paper birch trees for various purposes. However, you should not do this, and to learn more on the topic, check out 5 Reasons Why You Shouldn’t Peel Off Birch Tree Bark.

Most Common Areas Where Birch Trees Grow

As we mentioned above, birch trees love moist, wet areas with highly organic soil. Birch trees will grow best in USDA zones 2 to 7, although they will grow in USDA zones 8 to 9, they won’t live as long.

Birch trees prefer acidic, loamy, wet soil. They grow well in both sandy soil and clay soil. Birch trees can grow anywhere from 1-2 feet per year, and a mature birch tree can reach a height of 50-70 feet!

To learn more about birch trees and how they grow, check out our article: 4 Reasons Why Birch Trees Can’t Grow In The Shade.

Planst These Trees Instead To Avoid Far Spreading Birch Roots

So, if you are trying to steer clear of birch trees, there are a few different things you can plant instead.

If you are worried about care and watering, and potentially far spreading roots, then we have a few alternatives to birch trees for your yard. Keep in mind these are just a few suggestions, and there are many more out there!

• Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum
• Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana
• American Redbud, Cercis canadensis
• Weeping Cherry, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’
• Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia
• Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida

Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum

There are so many types of Japanese maples ranging in all sizes, colors, and shapes, most of which grow in hardiness zones 5-8.

A few common varieties of Japanese maple include: 

Bloodgood

This tree grows to be 15-20 feet tall and thrives in full sun to partial shade. In the summer, it sports dark red and purple leaves.

Coral Bark

The coral bark maple is great for large landscapes, growing to a height of 20-25 feet tall. It has dark red bark and golden leaves that will impress you year-round!

Autumn Moon

This Japanese maple will grow well in hardiness zones 4-8. It grows to a height of 6-10 feet tall, with gorgeous yellow and orange leaves in the spring.

Red Dragon

The red dragon grows to a height of 6-8 feet tall and does best in full sun to partial shade. It is one of the smaller varieties of Japanese maple and is perfect for any small space. The red dragon grows best in hardiness zones 5-8.

Crimson Queen

The crimson queen grows to a height of 8-10 feet tall and does best in full sun to partial shade. This Japanese maple grows in a weeping shape and has lace, deep cut leaves.

Depending on the area where you are planting, you may choose a certain size of Japanese maple tree or one based on the look, foliage, color, and shape!

Japanese maples come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you are bound to find one to fit in your landscape. 

Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana

If you have not seen a saucer magnolia before, it will probably have you in awe when they bloom in early spring. Their blooms resemble large dark pink and cream colored teacups.

The saucer magnolia grows well in hardiness zones 4-9 to a height of 20-30 feet tall and 25 feet wide, making this a great alternative to plant in place of a birch!

Like the other trees we have mentioned, this magnolia grows best in well-draining soils, especially in acidic, loamy, and sandy soils. This tree grows best in full sun, with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.

The saucer magnolia grows in a beautiful round shape and grows well in areas that have cold winters. It has a relatively good pollution tolerance, which is why you’d see them in Central Park in New York City. 

American Redbud, Cercis canadensis

When you are trying to decide if you want to plant a birch tree in your yard, the American redbud might be a great alternative if the birch tree is not sitting at the top of your list. 

The American redbud has heart-shaped leaves and vibrant purple-pink blooms in early spring. Redbuds grow anywhere from 20-30 feet tall and 30 feet wide, just slightly smaller than some birch trees. 

They grow well in hardiness zones 4-9 and grow best in full sun to partial shade. Redbuds like well-draining soils and grow well in windy areas. Their vibrant blooms turn into dark purple leaves in late spring, and then a dark green in early summer. 

If you decide to plant an American redbud in your yard, you will not be sorry! They will provide you with interest year-round.

Weeping Cherry, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’

The weeping cherry is a true specimen tree, commonly referred to as a Higan cherry! It grows best in full sun and hardiness zones 5-8. Although it is a cherry tree, it is purely ornamental, grown for its gorgeous white and pink blooms.

If an ornamental cherry tree interests you, check out our article, 8 Types Of Mock Cherry Trees And Where They Grow, to learn more about these types of trees.

The weeping cherry prefers well-draining soil and tolerates cold weather well. There are tons of them in Long Island.

The relatively small size of the weeping cherry makes it a perfect fit for your yard, especially if you are worried about the size of a birch tree!

Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia indica

The crape myrtle is an incredible tree that will keep you interested through all four seasons. If the flowers in the summer do not impress you, the bark will be a showstopper in the winter!

Crape myrtles grow well in hardiness zones 6-9 and grow to a height of 15-25 feet tall and anywhere between 6-15 feet wide. Although crape myrtles are full sun, they can tolerate partial shade, meaning they get at least six hours of direct sun per day. 

Because of their size, the crape myrtle is perfect for small or large spaces and does well in hot and humid climates, but surprisingly they grow well on Long Island!

Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida

The flowering dogwood is a seriously incredible tree! It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade. The flowering dogwood is most notable for its beautiful pink and white flowers that first emerge in the spring.

This dogwood grows anywhere from 15-30 feet tall and wide and grows well in Hardiness Zones 5-9.

The flowering dogwood is beautiful in all seasons and even bears bright red berries in the fall and winter. With 1-2 feet of growth per year, the flowering dogwood might be perfect for your yard!

If you want to learn more about some great birch tree alternatives for your landscape, check out our article, 12 Fastest Growing Shade Trees For Small Yards!

That’s A Wrap!

Hopefully, now you feel more comfortable about birch trees and what you can do if a birch tree is not exactly what you had in mind. 

While birch tree roots can be invasive, it is not likely they will take over your home. Therefore they are technically not invasive but just in case, we wanted you to feel comfortable in knowing what to do if a birch tree causes any issues. 

We recommend not removing any birch tree roots yourself, as it could cause more harm than good to your tree, so our recommendation would be to contact tree professionals!

While a birch tree can be a beautiful addition to your yard (if you do not have one already), we understand it is daunting to plant a tree with a huge, thick root spread.

To recap, here are a few alternatives to birch trees that you can plant in your yard if you’re looking for landscaping ideas:

• Japanese Maple, Acer palmatum
• Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana
• American Redbud, Cercis canadensis
• Weeping Cherry, Prunus subhirtella ‘Pendula’
• Crape Myrtle, Lagerstroemia
• Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida

Thanks for learning and reading about birch trees with us! Birch trees are not as daunting as they seem, but if you are unsure of what to do if you have a tree issue, contact a tree or landscaping professional!

References:

Kupper, Priit, et al. “Impact of high daytime air humidity on nutrient uptake and night-time water flux in silver birch, a boreal forest tree species.” Regional Environmental Change 17.7 (2017): 2149-2157.

Ranney, T. G., R. E. Bir, and W. A. Skroch. “Comparative drought resistance among six species of birch (Betula): influence of mild water stress on water relations and leaf gas exchange.” Tree Physiology 8.4 (1991): 351-360.

Uri, Veiko, et al. “Biomass production, foliar and root characteristics and nutrient accumulation in young silver birch (Betula pendula Roth.) stand growing on abandoned agricultural land.” European Journal of Forest Research 126.4 (2007): 495-506.

Vaitkutė, D., Baltrėnaitė, E., Booth, C. A., & Fullen, M. A. (2010). Does sewage sludge amendment to soil enhance the development of Silver birch and Scots pine?. Hungarian Geographical Bulletin, 59(4), 393-410.

Birch trees are hardy and adaptive trees, making them a favorite among gardeners and landscapers. They aren’t giant trees, growing only to a small or medium height of up to 80 feet, and come in several different colors.  

There are 18 species of birch trees in North America, with only several species having white bark. The most common birch trees with purely white bark are paper birch and silver birch trees. Birch trees have white bark so they can reflect sunlight during the winter when inactive.

In this article, we’ll review the different ways to identify birch trees, no matter the color of the bark. Then we’ll talk about the common varieties of birch trees and the best way to care for them if you have them within your landscape. Let’s get started!

​​Why Are Some Birch Trees White?

This answer to this question lies in how certain birch trees are naturally distributed across the country. The famous white color of birch trees does have a purpose: to reflect light and therefore heat away from the tree.

Birch trees that have white bark are usually found in the Northern areas of North America. During the winter, the warming of a birch tree’s bark is not a good thing – it can cause the internal temperatures within the tree to fluctuate and degrade. 

Extreme variations in temperature – like from warm to extreme cold – can cause white-barked birch trees to experience internal deterioration and even tree death. However, the light-colored, highly reflective bark protects these birch trees from winter injury. Interesting!

If you’re interested in learning more about birch tree growth, check out our article 4 Reasons Why Birch Trees Can’t Grow In The Shade

Common White Birch Tree Varieties

Paper Birch Tree 

The most popular, and recognizable, white-bark tree is the Paper Birch. Paper Birch grows in the northern and central areas of North America and has beautiful iconic bark. 

This birch tree’s bark is actually a dark color when it’s young, but as it grows and matures, it’s bark turns white and begins to peel aggressively. In fact, the bark of a paper birch tree sheds so often that the bark was often used to make bark canoes by Native Americans. 

This species can grow up to 60- feet tall but is relatively short lived. Paper birch trees are susceptible to boring insects, like the bronze birch borer. This tree is often passed over by landscapers due to their vulnerabilities to fungus and pests. We’ll discuss the bronze birch borer at the end of this article!

You’ll also notice that the bark on a paper birch tree actually gives off the texture of paper and that it sheds overtime. However, you should NOT peel of birch tree bark prematurely. You can learn more about why you shouldn’t peel off birch tree bark here.

Silver Birch Tree 

The Silver Birch Tree, also known as a White Birch Tree, is similar to the paper birch but has a slightly weeping appearance and doesn’t have peeling bark. It’s commonly used in landscapes as shade trees because of it’s beautiful appearance and its reputation to attract wildlife to the garden.

Silver birch is vulnerable to certain fungi which makes the tree less likely to be planted in yards.

If you have a silver birch within your landscape that is experiencing any issues, we encourage you to contact a local tree expert that can help you with your specific case as many silver birch issues don’t resolve themselves.

Common Brown Birch Tree Varieties

There are a number of birch tree varieties that come in different colors than the recognizable white. These types of birch trees typically haave thicker bark than their white-barked cousins and are a bit hardier in certain environments.

River Birch Tree

The River Birch, also known as the Water Birch, is native to the Eastern United States and can be found as far as north Florida. River birch trees are commonly found near water sources such as swamps, floodplains, and river banks. It’s one of the few heat-tolerant birch tree species and thrive in zones 6 and up.

River birches are commonly grown in landscapes that need assistance with erosion control. Unlike many types of hardwood trees, it’s well suited to a variety of soil types, including soil that can be particularly acidic.

There are certain varieties of River Birch that do have lighter shades of bark that are selected for landscape use and are resistant to the bronze birch borer – which is notable. 

River birches are also a popular tree among wildlife, like songbirds and many types of waterfowl – these trees are primarily used as nesting sites in the spring and summer. 

River birches are also used for the essential oils found within their leaves and inner bark. The oils within are known to have insecticidal and antibacterial properties. 

North American Birch Tree Characteristics 

There are approximately 18 birch tree species that are native to North America. North American birch tree varieties have similar characteristics, despite their variation in bark and leaf colors. 

For example, birch trees tend to be small to medium-sized and can generally be found in open, grassy or meadowy areas. 

In forestry, birch trees are known as a “pioneer” species, along with poplars, alders, and willow trees. They’ve earned that nickname by being some of the first trees to colonize open areas that lack vegetation. 

Some examples of areas that birches will colonize are abandoned farmland, meadows, and areas devastated by forest fires – these areas are prime real estate for birch trees. They also grow in clumps of 2 to 4 trees and establish forest canopies quickly in these ideal environments.

Birch Tree Leaves, Flowers, And Fruit

One tried and true way to identify birch trees is by paying attention to their leaf shape, flowers, and fruit.

Birch Tree Leaves

All birch trees are deciduous, meaning they lose their leaves in the late fall and winter. In saying that, when these trees do have their leaves, you can use them to help identify birch trees species in the wild. 

Birch tree leaves are egg-shaped with serrated and double-toothed points on the tips of the leaves. In the fall, the leaves can turn a variety of stunning colors like vibrant gold, fiery red, or burnt orange. 

Birch Tree Flowers And Fruit

Before bearing their fruit, birch trees produce long, slender flowers, more commonly known as catkins. These long clusters of flowers will eventually turn into a flat fruit known as samaras. 

Samaras fruit is small, flat, and winged, which allows the fruit to be carried by the wind for short distances. The shape of the seed is part of the reason that birch trees can spread voraciously within ideal growing conditions.

Treatments And Management For Bronze Birch Borer Infestation

The bronze birch borer is a species of beetle that feeds on most birch trees species. Signs of an infestation can include little to no foliage in the spring or summer, off-color leaves, dead branches at the top of the tree, and small D-shaped holes in the bark. 

If you live in an area where these insects can be an issue, you can help your birch tree resist birch borers by fertilizing it annually every spring. Try using an organic mulch, and this Purely Organic Tree & Shrub Fertilizer. The fertilizer spikes will fertilize continuously until the following year and are easy to install.

According to Oregan State University, If your birch trees show signs of this beetle, you must first assess the damage level. If less than 50% of the tree canopy appears to be affected, the tree can be saved. 

The larva of this beetle affects the birch tree, as they hide within the tree and feed on the softwood innards of the tree. The best way to control this pest is through tree injection pesticides, which are usually only available to licensed pest control companies. 

If you are experiencing this pest within your landscape, we encourage you to contact a local expert to work with you to save your birch tree!

That’s A Wrap!

Birch trees come in many different sizes and colors. While the paper birch species is the most famous species of birch tree, birch tree bark comes in a spectrum of color. 

Birch trees, across species have a few distinct characteristics to look out for: 

• Birch tree leaves are egg shaped with serrated edges on the tips
• Birch trees are deciduous and lose their leaves in the winter
• Birch trees are “pioneer” species, and can take over open areas. You will usually find wild birch trees growing close together.
• When birch trees bloom they produce long slender catkins that turn into fruit called samaras.

Best of luck in your tree identification journey!

References

Dehelean, C., Pînzaru, S. C., Peev, C., Soica, C., & Antal, D. S. (2007). Characterization of birch tree leaves, buds and bark dry extracts with antitumor activity. Journal of optoelectronics and advanced materials, 9(3), 783. 

Karels, T. J., & Boonstra, R. (2003). Reducing Solar Heat Gain during Winter: The Role of White Bark in Northern Deciduous Trees. Arctic, 56(2), 168–174.

Katovich, S. (1997). How to grow and maintain a healthy birch tree. USDA Forest Serv., Northeastern Area State and Private Forestry, Newtown Square, PA. 21 p. 

Lines, R. (1984). Man’s use of birch—past and present. Proceedings of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Section B: Biological Sciences, 85(1-2), 203-213.

S.A. Katovich. (2000). Bronze Birch Borer. Forest Insect and Disease Leaflet 111. 

For birch trees, naturally peeling bark is part of its growth cycle. As the tree grows and the trunk increases in width, the older bark pushes out from the more central parts of the tree, dries, and falls off.

Birch bark can be tempting to peel because it is beautiful. If you peel birch bark too early, you risk damaging the tree. You can safely peel off birch tree bark if the bark comes off with little resistance and is less than 1/4th inches thick. This is bark that the birch tree is already shedding.

Read on to learn the reasons birch bark can fall off naturally and why you should not peel it off yourself. We will also discuss what to look for to distinguish between natural bark peeling and an underlying issue affecting the tree’s health.

Why Do People Peel Off Tree Bark?

There are a few reasons people purposely peel away tree bark. Sometimes they use bark to make things, other times it is for the care or removal of the tree.

People have peeled bark to create things like baskets, boats, and parts of shelters in the past. Peeled birch bark, as well as the substance that holds the layers together, have also been used to make medicine.

A tree may also get damaged and need to be removed. People might peel away the bark on a tree they intend to get rid of. Peeling away the tree’s bark will cause the tree to die and dry out faster over a season, making the tree much lighter and easier to remove.

Why Does Birch Tree Bark Peel?

There are several reasons bark can peel from a tree. Bark may peel simply because the tree is shedding a layer of protection it no longer needs.

In other cases, bark may peel from many underlying conditions. Peeling bark can signal that a tree is suffering from some type of illness or disease. It may also be a sign of insect infestation that is damaging the tree and causing the bark to peel away.

Some tree bark peels because the moisture conditions or drainage are off for a tree. In any circumstance where you notice the bark of a tree peeling, you will want to investigate these potential causes.

Interesting to note that birch peel bark doesn’t just peel like typical tree bark but in-fact, according to the University of Vermont’s Department of Plant and Soil Science, birch tree bark actually peels in sheets.

Fungi Can Cause Birch Tree Bark To Peel

Bug infestation, frost, and water damage are not the only enemies of your birch tree’s health. There is one more we have yet to touch on.

Fungi can cause bark to peel before it should. Hypoxylon canker is one of the common fungi capable of causing bark peeling. Unfortunately, it is not a treatable disease.

If you are not sure whether your tree is naturally peeling or if it is being affected by an underlying cause, contact a professional arborist. They can inspect your tree and give you a more definitive answer.

Popular Uses For Birch Bark

Though there are safe ways to collect birch bark, if you are looking for crafting materials, this Natural Birch Bark is a great find! It comes in three sizes for all of your craft making needs and is just as beautiful as what you can collect yourself, with less of the hassle.

Birch bark has had many uses throughout history. Traditionally, people have used it to construct useful items like baskets, shelters, boats, and weapons. It was used as paper before the invention of modern-day paper as well.

Items like canoes, dishes, cookware, and even art were made from birch bark by Native American tribes near the Great Lakes. Canoes made from birch bark are lightweight and naturally water-resistant, making them perfect for early construction.

The powdery substance in between the layers of birch bark has been used as a natural painkiller as well. People have used many parts of the birch tree for medicinal uses throughout the years. Always consult a doctor before treating yourself in any way.

A quick note, if you’re interested, check out the reasons why birch trees can’t grow in shade here.

Why You Should Not Peel Bark Off Of A Birch Tree

There are multiple reasons you should not peel the bark off of a birch tree. Several things can damage a birch tree if you peel away the bark.

If the bark on a tree is very loose, this is a signal that the tree no longer needs that piece of wood. This process is akin to a shedding of skin that is no longer needed as a protective layer.

However, if the bark is still attached, this can harm the tree in multiple ways.

Peeling Bark Can Harm The Inner Bark

If a birch tree begins to peel in a natural shedding as a result of the tree growing, the old bark will usually fall off of the tree in its own time. It is not recommended to peel away tree bark. 

If you peel bark that is not yet ready, you might pull off more than the tree is ready to shed. Over peeling birch tree bark can harm the tree.

When tree bark is over peeled past the layers it is naturally shedding, the underlayers of the tree may not be fully ready to be exposed. Areas of a tree with prematurely peeled bark are vulnerable to weather, unfavorable moisture conditions, or bug infestations.

Birch Trees Can Get Sick From Exposed Bark

Birch trees can suffer from many illnesses. When bark is peeling unnaturally, this could be a sign that a tree is already suffering from an attack of boring bugs. It could also result from any other number of unfavorable conditions caused by weather or where the tree is growing. 

Peeling the bark of a birch tree leaves it more susceptible to disease. Without their natural defenses, trees will struggle to thrive.

In an article from Iowa State University, the authors note that peeling bark is typical of certain trees, including birch trees, and is a natural sign of tree growth. As the tree grows, it pushes the older bark from the center of the tree. The outer bark then dries and sheds.

Removing Bark From A Birch Tree Can Leave It Vulnerable

Tree bark acts like our skin acts for us. It is the first line of defense and protection for your tree. Any signs of distress can signal a deeper issue with the tree underneath.

A birch tree that has had its tree bark removed can be vulnerable to frost. It can also be susceptible to excess moisture that can become trapped under loosened bark layers and cause fungal issues.

Any area where the bark has been prematurely peeled is an area left open to potential damage.

Exposed Inner Bark Can Stop The Flow Of Nutrients 

If you peel bark from a birch tree, the tree may also suffer from a lack of nutrients.

A tree gets its nutrients in different ways, and one of the most important for the birch tree lies underneath the outer bark of the tree. There is a nutrient transport system under the outer layer of bark that helps nutrients travel where they need to go.

If you peel away birch tree bark, you can damage this nutrient transport system, called the phloem, and the tree can die. If the bark is removed in a ring around the entire tree, and this layer is damaged, it spells disaster for your tree. The tree roots will die and the tree will need to be removed.

Now if you actually need to remove tree roots, you can get rid of tree roots using vinegar.

Peeling Bark Can Leave A Birch Tree Open To Frost Damage

During the winter, trees can suffer from a few different types of damage. Some of this damage is referred to as load damage. This type of damage usually affects the branches or the trunk of the tree.

Heavy snowfalls and ice that remain for long periods of time on tree branches can cause significant damage. If this occurs, otherwise healthy branches may snap under the weight of heavy frosts, ice, and snow.

In other cases, the bark itself can be damaged by freezing temperatures. Sometimes, tree bark itself can suffer from freeze damage. This happens when bark that is already slightly peeling freezes and cracks.

These freeze cracks can happen as a result of sunscald as well. The outer layer of your tree loses some of its cold hardiness when temperatures warm up, which is referred to as sunscald. If the temperature drops again quickly, like from day to night, frost cracks can form.

The south-facing side of your tree is the most prone to damage. When this happens, the area underneath the tree bark can become susceptible to further frost damage.

Peeling Birch Tree Bark And Bug Infestations

Keeping your trees free of bug infestation is most definitely important. Peeling the bark off of your birch tree will make this more difficult. Look out for signs of infestation before it is too late!

In an article from Oregon State University, the author discusses the damage caused by a pest called the bronzed birch borer. These pests had a pattern of infestations in birch trees around the Oregon area. 

It’s noted that tree damage from these types of insects, who specifically target birch trees, can be hard to spot until there is already significant damage done. They also write that it is important to consider how much of a tree has been damaged before attempting to treat it. 

If over 40% – 50% of a tree has suffered damage, it probably does not make sense to try to save it. At this point, tree removal is the best option.

When Is A Good Time To Peel Tree Bark?

In the article, Harvesting And Use Of Birch Bark by the Michigan Agency Forestry, the author notes that if you remove birch bark correctly, it does not harm the tree.

When attempting to remove birch tree bark, one should look for already loosened bark that comes off with very little resistance and is less than 1/4 inches thick.

They also note that birch bark can be harvested from pieces that have already fallen off of the trees. In fact, this is the preferred way to collect birch bark.

If you are ever building with logs, this is when it is important to peel away outer bark. If you leave loose bark on a tree log, it becomes a boat for moisture, rot, bugs, and other problems of deterioration. 

Wrapping Up

As birch trees grow, their bark will dry, peel, and fall off the tree on its own. Peeling birch bark is a natural occurrence for this type of tree. If you have a birch tree and you notice it is peeling, check the tree for any signs of damage. 

Look for frost damage, pest damage, or fungal damage when checking your tree’s health. If you do not see any other signs of damage, you probably have a healthy birch tree that is just going through its natural cycle of shedding old bark. 

In either case, avoid peeling the bark from your birch trees to avoid causing damage to the tree. If you are unsure whether your birch tree is healthy, contact a professional who can come out and check the health of your tree just to be on the safe side.

References

Katovich, Steven, et al. “How to grow and maintain a healthy birch tree.” NA-FR-02-97.[Radnor, PA]: US Dept. of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northern Area State & Private Forestry 297 (1997).

Lines, Roger. “Man’s use of birch—past and present.” Proceedings of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Section B: Biological Sciences 85.1-2 (1984): 203-213.

Shorohova, Ekaterina, et al. `Tree species traits are the predominant control on the decomposition rate of tree log bark in a mesic old-growth boreal forest.” Forest Ecology and Management

Fletcher, Lucie, et al. “The use of birch bark.” Star Carr 2 (2018): 419e435.

Birch trees are deciduous trees. This means they lose their leaves in the winter. They require full sun, which is up to six hours, and prefer cool soil.

Birch trees are very adaptive and hardy. They can thrive in many types of soil, as well as in various climates. However, most birch trees cannot grow in the shade because they need full sun to stay healthy. While they can grow in partial shade, balance is important for your tree to thrive.

Whether you hope to grow a birch tree in your shadier yard or you have one already and have some concerns about its health, I hope this article helps you! Keep reading to find out more about how to care for your birch trees.

Where Do Birch Trees Grow Best?

Birch trees are in the family of Betulaceae, which includes hazelnuts, alder, and hornbeams. Their light-colored bark, thin leaves, and shading properties are their most recognizable traits. Their bark peels off in sheets as well.

This tree makes a wonderful landscaping tree because of its unique look! Striking colors stand out in any yard and provide a special interest. Adding other plants in the backdrop can help make this tree even better. 

Birch trees’ size varies based on their species. They flower beautiful flora. 

These trees do best on the north or east sides of buildings. This guarantees they receive full sun in the mornings and shade in the evenings. 

Birch trees are very forgiving. The only things they will not enjoy are overly wet or dry soils. They grow well in zones two through nine; however, this varies by species.

How To Care For Birch Trees

These trees can grow upwards of thirty feet. They have a shallow root system and need to be watered well. However, they dislike too much water. Mulch will help retain a decent moisture quality for the roots without being excessive.  

Each variety has different requirements, though. Water Birch does very well in flooding zones, unlike others of its kind. Consider soil quality before you plant. 

Prune your tree in late fall or winter. Birch trees lose sap if cut during spring and summer because of the growth patterns of the tree. Bores can also be a big issue on trees, but you can treat them by applying an insecticide. Bonide Annual Tree and Shrub Insect Control is a fantastic purchase if you are looking for one!

Can Birch Trees Grow In The Shade?

Birch trees need full sun to grow, or around six hours a day. However, they will tolerate partial shade. The shade helps them by providing a cooler environment which they enjoy. 

Finding the right balance between shade and sun is important for the proper growth of the tree. It is important to remember that while they will grow in partial shade; they are not shade trees. Allowing them to have enough sun is important for the trees’ overall health. 

Most species, however, do not appreciate shade and must have full sun to grow properly. You should consider this before planting.

Some varieties can grow in the shade, but that does not mean all will. Research the individual trees you are interested in for the best results while growing. 

Can White Birch Grow In The Shade?

Like most birch trees, plant white birch trees in the sun. These are medium-sized trees and can reach heights of 50 to 70 feet tall. They do, however, make excellent shade trees. 

You may also see white birch trees referred to as paper birch or canoe trees. This is because their bark peels in sheets, which look like paper, and their lumber makes fantastic canoes.

Catkins are the flowers of these trees, and the male and female catkins grow on the same tree. The only difference is the female catkins drop seeds. 

White birches will often grow in areas after a fire when much of the plant matter has died. Water this tree well and add mulch around the base to help the soil retain moisture.

Do Silver Birch Trees Grow In The Shade?

Silver birch trees are shade intolerant. They grow in Asian and European countries and favor colder climates. This tree is beautiful to look at, as it has stark white bark with black coloring placed on it. 

This tree is a marvel to see. It grows where others will not and among other conifer types. It can tolerate many soil types as well. 

When the leaves turn yellow in the fall, it provides a beautiful landscape. This tree can grow between 30-50 feet tall and it makes quite a mess when the catkins and leaves fall to the ground. 

Partial shade may be beneficial, especially in warmer climates; however, you should not plant them in full shade. 

What Climate Do Birch Trees Grow In?

Birch trees are native to regions of cooler climates. These include Europe, Northern states, Asia, and Canada. They grow best in zones 2-7 and thrive in wet sandy soil. 

This also depends on the species. There are over 40 species of Birch. These vary by size, color, and location.

Sweet birch trees, for example, are native to Eastern North America. The oils from Sweet Birch trees are often used to make birch beer. This is like root beer and has a nice wintergreen flavor. 

Another wonderful variety is the Himalayan Birch. This tree is unique because it grows high in the Nepal mountains. It looks similar to all the other varieties and grows catkins as well.

Sometimes, you will hear birch trees called paperbark. This makes sense, seeing as many used birch bark as paper before the invention of modern paper.

Are Birch Trees Fast-Growing?

The growth of birch trees depends on a variety of factors. They grow roughly 18 to 20 inches a year, which is a little higher than average. 

Factors to birch tree growth rate are:

• Nutrition
• Soil quality
• Sunlight amount
• Water amount

If given proper care, this tree will thrive. 

What Are The Benefits Of Birch Bark?

The Ojibwa Indians used Birch bark for many uses. They used birch to make canoes, dishes, and many other wood products. They used the bark for most of their crafting, as it is naturally waterproof. 

The bark can also make a brown dye and oil for leather. The Native Americans used these trees in so many ways!

Birch sap has a similar collection process to maple syrup. After collection, the sap gets turned into a sweet syrup and has its place in the culinary world. It is also a key ingredient in birch beer.

Why Should You Plant Birch Trees In Threes?

Growing Birch trees in threes can be a fantastic way to keep trees shorter. This is because the crowding restricts the growth of the tree. 

This method can also make for a wonderful look for your landscape. It also lessens the amount of maintenance needed because less pruning is not as necessary. Be sure to plant the groups at least 5 feet apart. 

Three is also a popular number in designing. Like comedy, most things come in threes. With landscaping, this is because of the eye-catching ability the threes have. 

How Sun Do Birch Trees Need?

Birch tree sunlight requirements vary by species. The average is around six hours of full sun a day. 

These trees will do better on the north or east side of any structure. This is due to the way the sun rises and falls. Doing this will ensure they receive the proper amount of light they need to function. 

You can help the tree get more sunlight by pruning it. Another option is pruning the branches on any surrounding trees. This helps open the canopy for more light to come through. 

The best course of action at ensuring proper sunlight is making sure you plant your tree properly. Research the variety you decide to plant and determine if it is right for your area. Once you determine that, choose the best area in your yard.

How Do Birch Trees Survive?

These trees survive by placing themselves where other plants die. After forest fires, these trees love to take over. Along with being able to handle most soil types and lots of water, this tree becomes the ultimate survivalist. 

These trees adapt well to their climate. Since they often live through the harsh winters, this tree has adapted for survival. Flexible branches and losing leaves help this tree live through the cold. The branches flex to hold up under the weight of snow and the loss of leaves helps prevent freezing. 

This tree also has thick bark, which insulated the inside of the tree, preventing the inside water from freezing. These adaptations are important to helping the tree survive. 

Tragically, many factors have led to some varieties of birch trees becoming endangered. Betula murrayana or the Murray birch is one of these. This tree is native to Canada and Michigan and is critically endangered.  

Can You Save A Dying Birch Tree?

The first step to saving any dying plant is to discover why it is dying.

There are many reasons that a birch tree may suffer and appear to be dying, which include:

• Pests
• Lack of water
• Diseases
• Not the right amount of sun

Once you decide on the issue leading to your issue, it is important to decide on proper treatment. 

If it is pests, you need to figure out what pest it is to determine the proper treatment. Birch leafminers and bronze birch borer are the main two pests that affect most Birch trees. However, it is the bronze birch borer that can kill the tree. 

These borers bore into the bark and feed on the trees. The only proper way to treat this problem is to catch it early and prune infected branches. 

Birch trees need plenty of water. The solution to this is simple: mulch around the tree and water it more often. Mulching will help retain more moisture and thus eliminate dryness. 

Diseases that affect the birch trees are not so easy to treat. The best way to treat these diseases is prevention because a healthy tree is less likely to succumb to diseases. Make sure your tree gets ample sunlight and care for your trees properly.

How Do You Grow A Birch Tree From A Branch?

Propagating can be a rewarding experience. Propagating is the act of taking a cutting from a plant and growing roots from it. This is an easy way to help produce new plants from existing stock. 

Propagating can be a great way to grow trees, as they take less time to mature. It is also quite simple with most trees.

All you need is clean pruning shears, rooting hormone, and rooting medium. Cut a 6-inch section of softwood from your tree, wrap it in a wet paper towel until you are ready to root it. Remove all but the top two leaves and then dip the end into the rooting hormone and then place the stem into the rooting medium.

Rooting medium is easy to make. Add one part perlite, one part peat moss, and one part sand. This is a well-draining mix but also will retain enough moisture to help root your cutting.

Over the next few weeks, keep the soil moist as your cutting roots. Once a good amount of roots grow, transfer your tree into a bigger pot. 

Propagating can be a fun project to do!

How Fast Do Birch Trees Grow?

Birch trees typically grow fairly fast, which can be good or bad depending on your goals. These trees can grow up to 36 inches a year, depending on species.  

Varieties such as dwarves typically grow slower than the larger varieties. These dwarf varieties make decent landscape trees. People looking for smaller trees often go for varieties like the dwarf river birch because they stay small and require less maintenance.

If you want a quick tree to grow for your landscape, this tree is for you! However, this tree may not be appropriate for those not wanting a large tree that grows as much as the birch every year. You may need to prune often to maintain an appropriate size. 

That’s All For Now!

Birch trees are unique and beautiful trees. They make fantastic landscape trees due to this uniqueness. Known for their striking coloration is the main feature of these trees. 

These trees are easy to maintain, they enjoy most soil types, thrive in excessive water, and thrive in the cold. They do not have many pests as well. 

Birch trees grow well in full sun and do not tolerate shade very well. They are fast-growing, easily adapting trees, and can grow up to 36 inches a year. They have thick bark, small compact leaves, and a love of the cold. 

The bark on these trees has so many uses! It makes syrup for many culinary uses, including birch beer. Birch bark can also become a brown dye, and some claim it has medicinal qualities.

No matter what reason you prefer these gorgeous trees, they are all fantastic! I hope you learned a bit more about how to care for your birch trees. Happy planting!

References 

Birch Trees Have Problems…Lack of Water and Borers. (n.d.). ANR Blogs. https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=16261

Feb 15, F. | H. 1005 | U., & Print, 2021 |. (n.d.). River Birch. Home & Garden Information Center | Clemson University, South Carolina. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/river-birch/

Penn State Extension. (2019, September 22). Planting in Sun or Shade. Penn State Extension. https://extension.psu.edu/planting-in-sun-or-shade