How to Create Clumps of Birch Trees

Paper Birch and River Birch are some of the most popular landscape trees.  These deer resistant trees have gained popularity due their unique bark and great yellow fall color.  You may notice that some yards have a single tree birch tree while others have clumps or multiple birch trees.  If you enjoy the multi stem look here is how you can do it yourself.

Many people find that clumps of river birches or other birch trees are more attractive than single trees.  This may be because birches are often found growing with multiple stems in the wild.  This happens when the parent tree is cut or broken off.

There are several ways to imitate nature if you want a clump of birches.

1) Buy Pre-Clumped: Nurseries often sell birch trees already growing with multiple stems

2) Cut Back Method: You can create multiple stem birches basically the same way they are created in the nursery.  After you plant a single-stem tree, wait a season or two so the roots are well-established.  Then cut back to an inch or two above the ground.  The tree should respond by sending up numerous shoots from the stump.  Select 3, 4, or 5 to become truncks.  (Note: Do not do this with grafted cultivars).

3) Plant Multiple Trees in One Hole: Plant 3 to 5 single stem trees in a group.  They will grow away from each other slighlt as they mature, but you can also start them that way by planting them slightly at an angle.  Plant them in a single hole with the roots spread out and the stems spaced about one foot apart.

Hopefully one of these three methods will help you create a clump of birch trees.  Learn more about Tree Care.