River Birch

$20.00 – $35.00Price range: $20.00 through $35.00

River Birch is known for its beautiful, unique curling bark.  It tolerates wetness and even some drought, making it a very easy tree to grow in most landscapes. The river birch is considered both a shade and an ornamental tree.  River Birch adds visual interest to any landscape.

• Botanical Name: Betula nigra
• USDA Zone: 4 – 9
• Average Height: 40′ – 70′
• Average Width: 40′ – 60′
• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade

River Birch Planting/Care Instructions

Before planting, have your soil tested to see what amendments are needed. Click this link to check your frost dates: Frost Dates. Check the light preferences for your plant and choose your location accordingly.

When you receive your River Birch, soak the root ball in water for 20 minutes upon arrival before planting or potting. Gently break up the root ball. This will help the roots of your River Birch to grow out into the soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of your plant. Fill in the hole tightly with soil to avoid any air pockets.

Add a bit of slow-release fertilizer to help new plants to grow quickly. Add the recommended amount per fertilizer instructions. Be sure to water your River Birch until it is established. In addition, pull weeds out when they appear. They take nutrients from the soil.

Additionally, certain plants may need staking. Whenever they become too heavy to stand on their own, add bamboo or fiberglass stakes for the plants to lean against or tie up for support.
Prune plants as needed to encourage growth. Always sterilize your pruners when pruning plants to prevent the spread of diseases.

If you have trouble keeping up with your pruners, check out our locally hand-made leather pruner holster here.

Lastly, enjoy your River Birch and your time in the garden!