Learn How To Treat Your Weeping Silver Birch Correctly

A weeping silver birch tree is a fast-growing decorative tree most known for its smooth, white bark. The branching structure of this type of tree is unique, as individual branches swoop downward in a charming fashion.

With regular care and periodic trimming, your weeping silver birch tree can live from a few decades to a few hundred years old. The tree will reach a maximum height of around 40 feet and maintain its thin, stalk-like trunk structure.

While a weeping silver birch thrives in most climates, the tree itself is somewhat delicate and requires special care. Learn how to treat your weeping silver birch correctly so you can enjoy this beautiful ornamental and shade tree for as long as you are in your home.

Plant Your Tree Correctly

You should plant a weeping silver birch with the trunk completely straight. Since the tree has a thin base, the tree can easily lean unattractively if not properly rooted in the ground. You need stakes to keep the tree straight until the foliage is able to support itself on its own.

The best time to plant a weeping silver birch is during the fall or winter, but you also plant it during early spring. Unless recommended by your arborist, do not plant a weeping silver birch in the summer months.

Understand Root and Leaf Needs

Weeping silver birches are known for their beauty but are not the hardiest of ornamental trees. Birch trees have shallow root structures by nature, so roots are close to the ground’s surface. This means you need to water the tree regularly to ensure hydration.

The leaves of the weeping silver birch require ample sunlight, which contrasts with its roots’ needs to be in the shade. Plant your birch tree in a location where the base of the tree is predominately in the shade while the highest points of the tree face the sun.

Create an Acidic Environment

All birch tree species prefer an acidic environment. Your weeping silver birch tree will thrive if you place mulch around the base of your tree with acidic elements, such as pine straw or bark to improve the acid content in the soil. Your arborist can also recommend a specific mulch or soil to keep your tree healthy.

Watch for Infestation

Birch trees are susceptible to a certain beetle infestation. The bronze birch borer is a common pest of birch species and destroys dead or weakened areas of the trees. If you see any signs of excess sap or deep brown spots in your tree’s trunk, call your tree specialist for an inspection.

Aphids are another known predator of birch trees. Attracted to the sticky sap on the weeping silver birch’s leaves, aphids will quickly become a problem. Yellow, brittle, and curling leaves may be a sign of an aphid invasion.

Know When to Prune

To keep a weeping silver birch’s ornamental shape, pruning is essential. Your tree specialist will prune your tree while the foliage is in its fullest leafing season to prevent any tree damage. If the tree is top-heavy and prevents the decorative trunk from showing or branches are too thick to let enough sunlight to the lower leaves, your tree specialist will thin the birch for healthier, more beautiful growth.

Your weeping silver birch should thrive for many years. Make sure you regularly deep water the tree so the shallow roots can have enough water to keep the tree lush and healthy. If your tree shows signs of excess drooping or has dead or dying leaves, call us at Ross Tree Company. We will help you keep your birch in healthy condition today.