Birch Trees

Birch Trees FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Birch Trees in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to plant Birch Trees

The best time to plant birch trees in the UK is during their dormant period, between late autumn and early spring, typically from November to March. This allows the tree to establish its roots in the cool, moist soil before the growing season begins, minimising stress and ensuring a strong start when active growth resumes in spring.

How to Plant Birch Trees

To plant birch trees, choose a sunny or lightly shaded spot with moist, well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and the same depth, ensuring the root flare is at soil level when planted. Backfill the hole with soil, firming it gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly. Apply a 5–10 cm layer of mulch around the base, keeping it clear of the trunk, to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. During the first growing season, keep the soil consistently moist, particularly in dry weather, to support healthy root establishment.

How long do Birch Trees take to grow

Birch trees are relatively fast-growing and can take around 10 to 15 years to reach a height of 6–9 metres, depending on the species and growing conditions. They can achieve a mature height of 12–25 metres within 20 to 30 years. Growth rates vary based on soil quality, moisture levels, and sunlight, with optimal conditions leading to faster development.

Why Grow Birch Trees?

Birch trees are a popular choice for their beauty, versatility, and environmental benefits. Their striking white bark and delicate, airy foliage add year-round visual interest to gardens and landscapes. Birch trees provide valuable habitats for wildlife, supporting insects, birds, and small mammals. They are fast-growing and adaptable, thriving in a variety of soils and climates. Additionally, their relatively small root systems make them suitable for smaller gardens, while their ability to improve soil quality and stabilise erosion adds practical value. With their graceful appearance and ecological contributions, birch trees are a fantastic choice for enhancing outdoor spaces.

Where can you grow Birch Trees?

Birch trees can be grown in a wide range of locations across the UK, thriving in sunny or partially shaded spots with moist, well-drained soil. They are highly adaptable and can tolerate acidic, neutral, or slightly alkaline soils, making them suitable for various garden and landscape settings. Birch trees are often planted in open spaces such as gardens, parks, and along riversides, as they prefer cooler climates and benefit from good air circulation. They can also grow in urban areas, provided they have sufficient space for their roots and canopy to develop.

Why Buy Birch Trees from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Birch Trees and other plants.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Trustpilot and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.