If you are looking for a small tree, cheerier than most, consider the Gray birch (Betula populifolia). It has appeal throughout the seasons in a naturalistic setting or at the edge of your lawn.
The grayish-white bark is striking against a background of evergreens or reflected in a pool. Near the sunny side of a porch, a group of gray birches will diffuse the sun’s strong rays into a delightful and almost constantly moving pattern of light and shade.
Its shiny, translucent leaves are borne on slender, slightly twisted stems which quiver in the gentlest breeze.
The graceful branches are bright terra cotta in color, and from these hang the green catkins, which will produce the next season’s staminate flowers.
Catkins In Birch
The catkins are not especially noticeable until the golden autumn leaves have dropped. Then they lend their interest to the winter scene.
Gray birch seldom grows more than 35’ feet high, with a trunk diameter of 8” to 12” inches.
A characteristic of this particular birch is that if it becomes too large, you can cut it down, and it will send out new shoots from the stump. But, left undisturbed, these suckers will grow rapidly into clumps.
Bark Does Not Peel
This graceful tree resists mutilation by the bark collectors, too. Its smooth white bark will not peel.
One of the hardiest and least fussy of our native trees, it thrives in wet places or dry, rocky uplands and in the most exposed locations.
It roots deeply and does not harm grass growing under it. The few insect enemies, as a rule, are not serious.
Birch Leaf Miner
The principal one is the birch leaf miner, which is effectively controlled with lindane, and applied at the rate of one pound of 25% wettable powder in 100 gallons of water.
For smaller quantities, use according to the directions on the container. Spray when the small blisters on the leaves are just becoming noticeable.
For the second generation, a repeat spray in early July is beneficial.
When purchasing these trees, try to choose only the smaller sizes, as large specimens, seven or more feet high, are difficult to move.
Extra Care To Have Lively Tree
For best results, set out trees in the early spring and give them a thorough weekly watering.
Instead of a single stem, you can plant two or three trees in the same hole for striking landscape effects.
Whatever your choice, with a little extra care at the start, this lively tree will reward you with years of ever-changing beauty.
44659 by Marvin H. Gage