What can grow under a birch tree?
Shrubs: use brilliant Cornus (Dogwood) such as 'Midwinter Fire', 'Annie's Winter Orange' or 'Cardinal'. Bright scarlet Nandina domestica (Heavenly Bamboo), low-growing variegated evergreens such as Euonymus fortunei 'Emerald'n Gold (Wintercreeper), or fragrant Hamamelis (Witch Hazel) are other striking alternatives.
How far from the house should you plant a river birch tree?
Site river birches at least 20 feet away from houses or power lines where local utility companies will need to trim the tree canopy. River birch roots seek out water and will take advantage of any cracks in an old water line, so avoid planting too close to sewer pipes (which often run through front yards).
Are the roots of a river birch invasive?
The roots of River Birch are not a threat to the nearby foundations as they're not invasive. But they are extremely absorptive notably near the surface, therefore, they restrict the plants to grow near the base of the River Birch tree. The roots require acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained, wet and clay soils.
Does grass grow under river birch?
Roots. The major conflict between river birches and grass takes place in the first inches of topsoil. Fine river birch roots form dense mats right under the surface. This is great for erosion control, but tends to choke out turfgrass roots that grow deep to find water.
What is the average lifespan of a river birch tree?
River birch is a medium to tall tree, growing 60-80 feet at maturity and about 40 wide. Trees typically live 50 -75 years. The trunk typically grows about 2 feet in diameter but occasionally will be much wider.
Do birch tree roots cause problems?
Birch tree roots spread as far as the tree grows wide and create an intensive mat of roots 4-8 inches thick below the soil surface and spread 20-40 feet as they mature, leading to issues with underground structures.
Do river birch trees damage foundations?
River Birch Tree Care Here is exactly what you need to know about River Birch trees to put your mind at ease about the potential for property damage: So long as River Birches have ample amounts of water, they should never pose a problem to your underground plumbing or property's foundation.
Do birch trees damage foundations?
Like other birches, a river birch's root system is wide and spreading, but not powerful enough to wreak havoc on your foundation. While some may fear the tree's roots, if deprived of water, will enter plumbing pipes, there's no evidence to suggest this is the case.
Is river birch a messy tree?
Though they are beautiful, River Birch Trees are messy and require more upkeep than other types of trees. These birches can create a lot of mess because of their shedding leaves, sticks, seeds, and peeling bark.
Are birch trees good for yards?
Birch trees are prized for their distinctive looks, and captivating beauty through all the seasons, and are a very fast-growing tree. They grow great in nearly all types of soil conditions with the proper care, meaning you can enjoy that papery magnificence all year round in your yard and property.
Does birch make good mulch?
Birch trees are fast growing and hardy in a variety of climates and soil conditions, making them ideal for commercial growth for mulching substances. Home gardeners can take advantage of this hardwood mulch for a variety of uses in and around the garden.
How much space does a river birch tree need?
Since river birches can reach 40 to 50 feet tall and 20 to 30 feet wide, they need plenty of room to grow. Space them 15 to 20 feet apart and at least that far from hardscape elements. Avoid planting them in shallow soil in USDA zones 8b and 9a, so they can establish deep root systems to survive the heat.
Do birch trees damage foundations?
Here is exactly what you need to know about River Birch trees to put your mind at ease about the potential for property damage: So long as River Birches have ample amounts of water, they should never pose a problem to your underground plumbing or property's foundation.
Is river birch good for backyard?
It is hardy in all U.S. climate zones, it is fast-growing, nicely forked, wind and ice resistant. Heritage river birch is an excellent selection with superior vigor, larger leaves, and greater resistance to leaf spot.
What trees can be planted close to a house?
These include willow trees, poplars, cottonwoods, aspens, silver maples, Norway maples, and American elm trees, among others. Smaller trees with shallow roots, however, pose little risk to your home. Japanese maple trees, for instance, are safe to plant relatively close to your house.