How big is a river birch?
When found in the open, River Birch may reach 70 feet tall and 40 feet wide as a single trunked tree, and about 50 feet tall and 40 feet wide as a multitrunked tree. As a member of the Birch Family, it is related to the Alders, Hornbeams, Filberts, and Hophornbeams, in addition to other Birches. In general, river birch trees prefer moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, but they can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. They also prefer full to partial sun exposure, but can tolerate some shade. River birch trees are relatively cold hardy and can grow in zones 4-9.Growth Rate Expect river birch to grow at a medium to rapid rate (1 ½ to 2 feet per year), particularly in moist, fertile, well-drained locations in full sun to moderate shade.It’s best to plant River Birch at least 15-20 feet away from your house. Its roots are not typically invasive, but they can spread wide in search of moisture. Planting too close to structures can lead to foundation or drainage issues, especially in compacted soils.It is one of the better fast-growing shade trees, valued as a landscape tree for the colorful exfoliating (peeling) bark which is particularly noticeable in the winter. River birch is one of the most culturally adaptable and heat tolerant of the birches and a good substitute for pest-prone paper and white birches.River birch trees have a relatively long lifespan compared to some other trees. In optimal growing conditions, a river birch tree can live for 50 to 70 years, although some specimens live longer. However, a number of factors, such as environmental stressors, pests, and diseases can affect the lifespan.
How to keep river birch small?
River Birch Tree Pruning A river birch tree can grow between 40 and 70 feet tall and can grow up to 13 to 24 inches per year. Annual pruning promotes healthy and attractive growth. The best times to prune river birch are during late spring, late fall and winter. For homeowners who aspire to maintain their landscape’s health and visual appeal, knowing the right time to prune trees is helpful. Late fall to early winter marks the ideal time to prune river birch trees for several reasons, such as minimizing sap flow and preventing infestations that can lead to diseases.
How close to a house can you plant a river birch tree?
Some specimens may grow as quickly as 40 feet in just 20 years. This means that these plants need room to grow — they are not good choices for foundation plantings. Site river birches at least 20 feet away from houses or power lines where local utility companies will need to trim the tree canopy. Birch plantings generally require ample space to accommodate their root system and canopy spread. A good rule of thumb is to allow at least 20 feet of space from buildings or other large plants to prevent overcrowding and ensure healthy growth.They are well suited to small gardens or when a group of trees is desired in larger gardens. Birch trees let the sunlight through with their airy foliage and many have gorgeous bark, catkins and autumn colour.
What is the lifespan of a river birch tree?
River birch is a medium to tall tree, growing 60-80 feet at maturity and about 40 wide. Trees typically live 50 -75 years. The trunk typically grows about 2 feet in diameter but occasionally will be much wider. This shade tree has highly symmetrical branching and upright pyramidal to upright oval form. Birch trees grown from sowing and studied by these authors exhibited typical heart-shaped root systems reaching as deep as to 7–9 (max.
How fast growing is a river birch tree?
It’s easy to understand why the Heritage® River Birch is such a popular tree. For starters, it’s resistant to common diseases, grows up to 2 to 3 feet each year, and adapts to a variety of soil types. Plus, it’s an elegant source of shade, with unique peeling bark that stands out in your landscape. The tree is a great attraction and will be unconditionally adored by the birds and the bees. As the birch is a pioneer species this gives it a symbol of rebirth, new beginnings and growth. It’s a sacred tree within the mythology of the Celts and is thought to have very protective influences.The silver birch is a popular garden tree because its deep roots don’t often trouble structures around them, and its sparse canopy offers shade without blocking out too much sunlight.Topping birches is not a good idea. They don’t recover and never look normal. Promotes disease and birch boarers. Don’t top the tree.