The Birch is an easily recognizable and popular tree that is widely used for landscaping. Their distinctive bark and majestic stature have made them a favorite amongst people that are selecting trees for their landscape. The silver bark of the Paper Birch stands out among others in wooded areas and features a lot in paintings of landscapes. The cultivar known as 'Crimson Frost' distinguishes itself by its purple tinged leaves whereas the 'River' variety sheds it bark showing many colors in this process. Both the slender and thicker varieties of trees do not grow into very tall or big trees. How ever some special considerations need to be made in terms of site selection and soil condition if you want your birch tree to reach full maturity.

Having good soil is probably the most important criteria for growing a healthy birch tree. The type of soil determines how many nutrients are available to the growing tree as well as how easily water can reach the birch trees root system. These two factors will determine if your birch reaches its maximum height as well as its ability to fend off best and fungi. Picking a birch spot is fairly easy because this tree loves the sun. The roots, however, do not and if exposed to harsh sunlight can result in poor growth. The roots should be shaded and protected from heat by putting a thick layer of mulch all around the base. Adequate watering is required with a slope to drain off any excess. The actual incline of the land will help further even though the tree is put into a basin like spot created for it's planting.

In a saucer-shaped hole, dig the ground to about 3 inches below the actual length of the main root. The first set of root branches growing away from the trunk need to be put deep into the soil. Check to see if there is a tangled, bunch of tiny roots and tendrils before putting the birch into the ground. This is not required and only means that the plant is mature and was too long in a smaller container.

Cover the birch with half the soil initially removed while digging and water this to settle and dislodge air trapped below. Put in the rest of the soil and water some more. Pat the base of the birch to check for stability and firmness and then layer mulch generously for about two or three inches. Make sure that the birch is watered regularly till it has taken well to the spot chosen for it. I have heard some people make mention that it is ok to use the same fertilizer from you lawn on birch trees. Please be aware that this is not recommended. Since lawn fertilizers contain such a large amount nitrogen it is not recommended for birch trees because it will not allow the tree to reach its maximum height.

Also over time, nitrogen rich fertilizers tend to burn out the soil which can cause your birch tree to die prematurely. Even thought birch tree thrive in the sun it is important to keep them well watered in order to promote heather growth. During very dry periods especially in the spring it is essential to keep your birch trees well watered. Some good methods include the use of dripper hoses or water spikes that can deliver a small dosage of water over along period of time. This will ensure that the water permeates to an ideal depth of 1 - 3 feet.

If you like artciles about trees & shrubs....These pages might also interest you:

Guide to Conifers & Evergreens, How to Prune Shrubs, Gardening With Viburnum, Gingko Trees, Growing Magnolias, Japanese Barbury, Katsura Trees,Shrubs as Garden Borders,The Weeping Atlas Tree, Tough Trees, Great Birch Trees, Growing Citrus Trees, How to Prune Shrubs,How to Start Seedlings, Lustrous Abelia, Popular Shrubs, Shrub Winter Care Guide, Shrubs With Berries, Summer Hydrangeas