Birch (Betula pendula) is a deciduous tree that comes under the genus Betula. The family of the birch tree is Betulaceae. Previously, birch trees were only meant to be in forests, but nowadays, people are interested in planting birch trees in their garden areas or back yard.
The colourful birch trees are known for their beautiful ambience, which suits a garden area. Birch also does not demand high maintenance. So, you can easily plant a birch tree in your own home. In this article, we will provide all the details that can help you to get a birch tree for yourself.
See also: Redwood tree: Facts, features, maintenance, benefits, and toxicity
Birch tree: Key facts
| Botanical name | Betula pendula |
| Family | Betulaceae |
| Common name | Silver birch, European white birch, white birch |
| Plant type | Deciduous hardwood |
| Leaf type | egg-shaped or triangular, usually pointed leaves |
| Flower Characteristics | Catkin-like flower |
| Varieties available | Bog Birch, Cherry Birch, Chinese Red Birch, Downy Birch, Dwarf Birch Tree, Gray Birch, etc. |
| Height | 30-50 feet |
| Season | April to May |
| Bloom time | late summer and autumn |
| Sun exposure | 6 hours daily |
| Ideal temperature | 20 to about 30 degrees C |
| Soil type | Moist, sandy, and loamy soil |
| Ideal location for placement | North or east side of a building |
| Maintenance | Water the tree regularly, prune your tree and keep an eye on pests |
| Fertilisation | Low-nitrogen fertiliser should be given in early spring |
Birch tree: Physical description
The birch tree is a medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 30 to 50 feet. Egg-shaped or triangular, and pointed leaves are visible in birch trees. Leaves are arranged in pairs on later branchlets.
Flowers of birch are monoecious. They look like drooping scales or catkins.
Source: Pinterest
Birch tree: How to grow
If you are eagerly waiting to add birch trees to your garden, here are the detailed tips you should follow. You can choose a central place in your garden to plant a birch tree.
- Six hours of sunlight is required, and choose the place wisely in your garden. The ground should be shaded.
- If you want to plant a birch tree sapling, then dig a hole twice the sapling root size. Keep the spot deep. Moist the soil properly.
- After placing the tree into the hole, fill the whole area with soil. Soil should contain a good level of nutrients.
- For the first year of the birch tree, support the tree by tying it with a metal pipe.
Birch tree: Maintenance tips
Here are some best tips that can help to grow the tree well.
- Water your tree daily to keep the soil moist.
- The root area of the birch tree should stay away from too much heat. You can place some shredded bark or other things to protect the upper soil from high heat.
- Prune the plant from time to time. It will help to grow the tree with a good structure.
- Various pests are attracted to birch trees. You have to check this factor daily.
Source: Pinterest
Birch tree: Uses
Birch trees have a lot of good benefits for humans. Here are those benefits.
- Birch leaves are good for foraging. It can reduce digestion problems. Also, toxins are released from the body.
- Birch bark is helpful for detoxifying kidneys and the urinary tract because of its diuretic property. It is also useful for reducing kidney stone problems.
- Bark of birch is good for reducing aches and pain. Arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis pain can be reduced noticeably.
- Birch bark tea can tone skin which helps to even the face complexion.
- Birch wood is used for various craft materials.
Birch tree: Is this plant toxic?
The pollen of birch trees is not good for humans and animals. Otherwise, the tree has a lot of good health benefits.
Source: Pinterest
FAQs
What is the best fertiliser you can use for a birch tree?
You can use 10-20-10 fertiliser for your birch tree for good growth and blooming.
What main maintenance tips do you need to follow for a birch tree?
You must water the tree properly, keep an eye on pests, and prune your tree.
Which type of soil is ideal for birch trees?
Moist, sandy, and loamy soil is good for birch trees.