The silver birch (Betula pendula) is not only common in sparse forests and field edges, it can also be planted wonderfully in your own garden - provided you have enough space there for the very fast-growing deciduous tree. In particular, the 'Youngii' variety, also known as weeping birch, and the blood birch 'Purpurea' have a high ornamental value. Birch trees, regardless of their variety, should not be cut back if possible - and if such a measure should ever be necessary, it is best to carry it out in late autumn or in winter.

Silver birches should be pruned back in the cold season if possible

Basically, silver birch does not need pruning

Actually, pruning a silver birch is not a particularly good idea, because the tree tends to bleed a lot. In addition, it can happen that if the tree is cut improperly, it either stops growing completely in the intended area or - as a sort of compensation - lets a lot of unsightly spider veins sprout. In order to avoid such a development, young shoots should only be cut back when they are between 20 and 25 centimeters in length, although you should always leave at least two leaf buds. Besides that

  • each cut should be kept at a slight angle
  • always make the incision at least three millimeters above a sleeping eye
  • only remove dead branches directly at the base
  • always use clean and sharp cutting tools

Furthermore, it can happen that the silver birch develops several new shoots at the interface. You should remove these - except for one - in good time.

Perfect pruning time between November and January

In addition, silver birches should only be cut on a warm and dry day between November and January, otherwise the trees tend to bleed out due to the high sap pressure, especially in spring. In winter, however, the birch is dormant, so at least this danger does not exist. However, make sure to seal larger cuts well with a wound sealant.

Obtain birch sap in spring

Traditionally, between March and early May, the slightly sweet-tasting and very healthy birch sap can be obtained, for which there are two proven methods:

1. Cut the end of a smaller branch and stick it in a bottle. Seal the opening well and attach the bottle to the branch.

2. Drill a small hole in the birch trunk and insert a straw or something similar. Fasten a collection container below the opening into which the juice is fed. The hole should be closed well after tapping.

tips

Birch sap can be stored in the refrigerator for a week at most. However, you can preserve it by mixing it with vodka or something similar in a 1:1 ratio.

Category:

Trees