Birch trees are wonderful trees with quaint charm and a hardy character. It is therefore always advisable to strive for peaceful coexistence with the impressive plants. However, there may be reasons why you want to kill a birch: from lack of space to too little light to allergic reactions. Here you can find out how you can proceed and what you should definitely pay attention to.

The birch gradually dies from ringing

Is it permissible to kill a birch?

Killing a survivor like the birch is not so easy. In addition, all types of trees in Germany are subject to legal protection. Anyone who does not want to be confronted with sometimes stately penalties should therefore know the tree protection statutes of the respective region before the birch bark is attacked. So think carefully about whether there really are no alternatives to your project.

The Ringel Method

Ringing is a method used in forestry to remove trees. It should be the variant of your choice if you want to do without harsh chemical agents and without felling the birch. The method works by cutting off the flow of nutrients from the sap stream. To do this, cut a strip of bark and cambium about ten centimeters thick. So the birch gradually dies off. Possible disadvantages:

  • The natural process takes time.
  • Individual branches fall off piece by piece.
  • It is important to keep your distance, otherwise the tree becomes a danger.

Instructions for ringing

  1. In principle, ringing can be carried out on your own. However, it is quite a laborious and time-consuming task. So you better get reinforcements.
  2. Using a drawknife, peel out a strip of bark about five to ten centimeters wide in the lower area of the trunk.
  3. Difficult pieces that curve inward are best removed with a grafting knife or plucking hook.
  4. Once the bark has been removed all around, it's time to carefully scrape out the underlying cambium - again around the trunk. Preferably choose a wire brush for this.

Important tips

The best time for ringing is in midsummer after the birch has blossomed. In this period, the tree is already exhausted from flowering and is more likely to submit to your plan. It is also important not to damage the wood underneath the cambium. Otherwise rot can occur and make the tree a source of danger.

Category:

Trees