Birch is a symbol of Russia. These beautiful and graceful trees delight the eyes of many people.
Birch tree
Paper birch is very popular in modern gardens. This species has a spreading, dense crown. She is not characterized by "weeping." And the skeletal branches of a tree grow up and to the sides. Over time, they change their position to horizontal, and the branches begin to hang beautifully. Due to this, the crown of the tree has the shape of a pyramid. It is lush and delicate, so paper birch is often used in gardens as an ornamental plant.
This tree is one of the fastest growing. Annual growth is up to 45 cm. At the age of 10, the birch reaches 7 m in height.
A tree trunk is especially beautiful. The bark is snow-white, with a small splash of black. In some cases, the surface of the tree acquires a pinkish tint. The bark of a tree easily exfoliates from the trunk. It is often used in applied art.
The leaves of birch are large, seemingly inconspicuous. But in the autumn period they are painted in a delicate light yellow color. You can paint pictures from each birch in October, because these beauties put on unusually airy yellow dresses.
One cannot but recall the spring, when the tree also acquires a decorative look. The paper birch looks particularly elegant in landscape design in April-May. Long earrings bloom gracefully hanging at the ends of the shoots.
A description of paper birch suggests that the root system of this plant is superficial and widespread. Thanks to this, the plant is well retained in the soil. Therefore, large gusts of wind birch are not scary.
This species of birch is well acclimatized in central Russia. He perfectly showed winter-hardy and frost-resistant characteristics. This plant does not require special care.
Birch is an ideal tree for the city. She is not afraid of gas pollution and air pollution, contributes to the improvement of the ecological state of the environment.
Growth Features
Paper birch is an unpretentious plant that can be easily grown in any conditions. Different types of soil are suitable for growth. Only heavy and dense species can cause difficulty.
The ideal soil for birch is well-drained loam. The plant is adversely affected by high groundwater, so in such areas it is better to plant a tree on a hill.
It is more advisable to plant a birch in open areas, as she loves the sun very much.
Planting a plant
Mostly birch is planted in the spring. Thanks to this, the plant will already be able to take root and take root well by wintering.
Planting a plant is quite simple, especially if the seedling was previously in the container. Such plants can be planted at any time of the year. In this case, the root system of the tree is not injured. But special attention should be paid to care after planting.
Landing pit should be prepared in advance. Compost, humus, and mineral fertilizers are added to the upper fertile layer. After the seedling in the container is well watered and carefully removed from the container, placed in a prepared landing pit. Further, it is covered with a mixture of nutrient soil and watered abundantly.
Immediately after planting, the seedling must be fixed with stretch marks. They will strengthen the plant in one position, protecting it from the winds.
After landing care
Caring for paper birch does not require much effort. The most important thing is to regularly water the seedling 2 times a week until completely rooted. The amount of water must be consumed based on the size of the seedling and soil quality. For example, loamy soil needs less water than sandy soil.
Make sure that when watering the entire lump with roots is saturated with water. After all, if only the top layer is moistened, then the roots will not receive the necessary moisture. Watering should be regulated, taking into account the weather conditions in the region.
The soil at the near-stem circle must be constantly loosened and cleaned of weeds.
Every year it is necessary to trim the tree. Damaged and dried branches are removed.
Caskets, jewelry, dishes, souvenirs and much more are made from paper birch bark .
Birch in landscaping
Modern designers often use paper birch for planting on the site. This unpretentious tree is highly decorative. It is often used for landscaping urban squares and parks.
Birch fits perfectly into small gardens near the cottages and houses.
Often this type of birch is used in large landscape gardening compositions. It is planted near alleys and paths.
Conclusion
Birch is one of the most beautiful, delicate and elegant plants. Trees look spectacular both alone and in compositions with various plants.