As classic pioneer plants, birches do not require much in order to thrive. A few points are all the more important for this. In addition to sufficient light, the most important thing for the picturesque plants of the Betula genus is sufficient space. This is mainly due to their root type: birches are typical shallow roots.
Birches are typical flat-rooters
The root of the birch
Birch trees come in more than 50 different species. What they all have in common, however, is their root system, because birches are all flat-rooted. This means that the trees spread their root network in a ring directly below the surface of the earth. Birch trees therefore absorb liquid and nutrients from the surface water that seeps into the soil. In doing so, they prove to be extremely fierce competitors to any nearby plants that also have a shallow root system - and anything else that might get in the way, such as paved paths or light structures. In contrast to the shallow-rooted birches, so-called deep-rooted trees such as firs or pines obtain their nutrient supply from several meters deep in the ground.
Effects of site selection
Anyone planning to plant a birch should definitely consider its root type. Because this results in decisive criteria for the optimal choice of location. First of all, you should plan a sufficient distance to other plants in the area, especially if they are also flat-rooted. You most likely wouldn't be able to beat the energetic birch roots.
The closer company of deep-rooters, on the other hand, should be uncomplicated, at least as far as the roots' fight for valuable water is concerned. On the contrary, competition for light could play a role beyond the earth's surface, since the birch needs a location with as much sun as possible or at least light penumbra.
Other sources of problems with shallow roots
Birch trees grow at least 30 meters in height and form very opulent crowns. For this reason alone, it is necessary to have enough space available when planning the garden. Since the shallow roots are also very powerful in making their way, nearby paved or otherwise built-up areas are also not entirely ideal. They could lose out against the growing roots and break up or break down.
Possible fall hazard
There is also a widespread concern among gardeners that flat-rooted plants could fall over more easily in stormy weather conditions. After all, these types of trees are not as deeply rooted in the ground. In the case of the birch, however, the all-clear can be given: because the soil conditions would have to be extremely poor and dry for the roots to be unable to gain a foothold. Just pay attention to a suitable, slightly moist, loamy-peaty soil quality when planting, and the tree will take root safely. Other precautionary measures will help you if you want to be on the safe side:
- secure young birch trees in the growth phase with a stake
- Secure the environment from the risk of falling
- plan enough distance from power lines, playgrounds, garages and parking lots