Look at it this way: a birch tree has to shed its old leaves in the fall so it can show off that gorgeous, vibrant green foliage come spring. So, there’s no need to feel down about the changing seasons! Instead, let’s roll up our sleeves and give our birches exactly what they need to wrap up the year right.
The Birch’s Autumn Look
By fall, those tiny winged nutlets are fully ripe, catching the wind to find a cozy spot of bare earth to start a new life. Meanwhile, the mother tree has finished her hard work for the year and is ready for a well-deserved break—especially since the upcoming winter chill puts a total pause on growth anyway.
The leaves turn a stunning yellow, though the Gold Birch likes to stand out with a bright orange hue. Fun fact for the natural health enthusiasts out there: autumn birch leaves are said to be packed with antioxidants! By the end of the season, the tree will stand bare, but if you look closely, it’s already prepared for next year by forming its male catkins (flower clusters).
Planting a Young Birch
If you’ve propagated a little sapling or picked one up at the local nursery, fall is hands-down the best time to get it in the ground. Since the tree isn’t focused on growing new leaves right now, it can funnel all that energy into establishing a strong root system before winter hits.
Quick Tip:
Birch trees are shallow-rooted, meaning their roots spread out wide just under the surface. When planting, make sure to give them plenty of space away from walls, paths, or other shallow-rooted plants. Otherwise, you might find yourself having to cut the tree down much sooner than you’d like.
Fall is Pruning Season
During the peak growing season, a birch tree’s sap is flowing at full speed. If you prune it then, the birch will “bleed” or drip sap excessively. That’s why the best time to prune is in the autumn.
- “Bleeding” cuts can lead to rot, so timing is everything.
- Unless you’re a pro, avoid pruning birches during the rest of the year.
- Always leave the main leader branch intact.
- Thin out the crown well—birches are sun-lovers and need plenty of light reaching their branches.
