Birch trees are absolute masters when it comes to spreading their seeds. They produce tons of tiny, winged seeds that can fly long distances and sprout almost anywhere. Because of this, you’ll find birch seedlings popping up just about everywhere—in the wild, in your neighbor’s yard, or even right in the middle of your own flower beds.
Why buy one when you can get it for free?
Garden centers sell young birches (scientifically known as *Betula*) in containers all year round, but that can get pricey. Why spend the money when nature offers them for free? When the birch tree wakes up in the spring—usually around April—it’s the perfect time to scout for a seedling and transplant it. Look around the base of a mature birch tree, but always make sure you have permission before you start digging!
Pro Tip:
Look for a sapling that’s about 3 feet (1 meter) tall or smaller. Since birches are shallow-rooted, these smaller trees are much easier to dig up without damaging the root system. Be sure to take plenty of soil with the root ball; this soil contains beneficial fungi that live in symbiosis with the tree and help it thrive.
Planting your seedling in the garden
When picking a spot for your young birch, remember that they are sun-worshippers—plenty of light is a must! On the bright side, they aren’t picky at all about soil quality. Even if your sapling looks tiny now, give it plenty of room to grow. Birches are famous for their rapid growth rate. Make sure to keep it several yards away from walls, pathways, other shallow-rooted trees, and your neighbor’s property line. Of course, you can also plant your birch in a large pot to enjoy on a balcony or patio.
- Dig a hole twice as large as the root ball.
- Add a layer of coarse gravel at the bottom for drainage.
- Mix your excavated soil with some compost.
- If the sapling is a bit wobbly, set up a support stake (tie the tree to it after planting).
- Place the birch straight in the hole.
- Fill the hole with soil and lightly tamp it down with your foot.
- Water the seedling well and keep the soil consistently moist for the first few months.
Growing a seedling from scratch
If you can’t find a wild seedling, you can easily grow a birch yourself. You can sow seeds between late March and early April, or you can take a cutting from a healthy branch tip.
- The cutting should be about 4 to 8 inches (10-20 cm) long.
- It should be woody at the bottom and green at the top.
- Prepare a pot with fresh potting soil.
- Strip the leaves off the bottom of the cutting and gently push it straight into the soil.
- Place the pot in partial shade and keep the soil evenly moist.
- Once the cutting has established a strong root system, it’s ready to be planted in the ground!
