Gardening Trees, Shrubs & Vines Trees Birch By Viveka Neveln Viveka Neveln Instagram Viveka Neveln is the Garden Editor at BHG and a degreed horticulturist with broad gardening expertise earned over 3+ decades of practice and study. She has more than 20 years of experience writing and editing for both print and digital media. Learn about BHG's Editorial Process Updated on November 28, 2018 Share Tweet Pin Email Birch Tree Overview Description Graceful, delicate branches combined with small leaves and peeling bark (on some species) make sure that birch trees amp up a landscape's appeal. They're especially dramatic when planted as an allee (in rows on either side of a path), in a grove, or near water where their impact is doubled in reflection. As medium to large trees, members of the birch family can be incorporated into large suburban residential landscapes with relative ease. Many native species provide welcome habitat for local wildlife. Birch trees generally thrive in moist, well-drained soil and cool, moderate climates. They struggle to survive in hot, dry regions. Genus Name Betula Common Name Birch Tree Plant Type Tree Light Part Sun, Sun Height 20 to 20 feet Width 15 to 25 feet Foliage Color Blue/Green Season Features Colorful Fall Foliage, Winter Interest Special Features Attracts Birds Zones 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Propagation Seed, Stem Cuttings Problem Solvers Slope/Erosion Control Garden Plans For Birch Using Birch in the Landscape Deciduous birch trees take on striking gold and yellow fall color. Pair them with evergreen trees, such as Norway spruce or white pine, to highlight their intense yellow fall color. Stage a brilliant leaf show by planting birch alongside trees that sport red and orange fall foliage. Sugar maple, ornamental pear tree, and serviceberry are a few easy-to-grow trees that thrive alongside birch and provide bright, flashy fall color. Caring For Birch Trees Birch grows well in full sun or part shade and moist, well-drained soil. That is, as long as the shallow root system—which is sensitive to heat and drought—gets the shade it needs to thrive. Some varieties grow well in boggy or wet soil, so check with the nursery when you pick out your specimen(s). Plant container-growing or balled-and-burlapped trees in spring. Spread a 2-inch-thick layer of mulch over the newly planted tree's root zone to keep the roots cool, prevent soil-moisture loss, and limit weed growth. Water newly planted trees regularly and deeply during the first growing season. Aim to provide trees with 1 inch of water per week. Continue watering every couple of weeks during the second growing season to encourage plants to develop a strong, deep root system. Prune birch as needed in winter to maintain desired size and shape. Prune away broken, crossing, or rubbing branches as soon as they are noticed. Many species of birch are susceptible to bronze birch borer, which can kill trees in two to three years. This destructive insect pest invades stressed birch trees that are struggling to grow in poorly drained soil or hot, dry conditions. Prevent a bronze birch borer attack by selecting a variety that is resistant to bronze birch borer and planting it in a cool, moist, shaded location. A healthy, thriving tree has a better chance of fending off a pest attack. New Types of Birch Plant breeders are developing smaller selections of birch trees. Small varieties—river birch in particular—make it possible to enjoy their graceful habit and fall color in urban and small landscapes. Look for 'Summer Cascade', 'Shiloh Splash', and 'Fox Valley' varieties of river birch at your local garden center. These plants grow 6 to 12 feet tall and wide and feature peeling bark. More Varieties of Birch Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit