As a shallow-rooted tree, the birch can only absorb water in the upper layer of the earth and at the same time loves sunny places. It is inevitable that she will be confronted with dryness more often. Can she get through this unscathed, if at all? We want to clarify that here.
How much drought can the birch tree tolerate?
The birch is undemanding and can therefore cope with dry soils. But only if the drynessis not pronounced ornot long lastingis. Experts fear that climate change can triggerdrought stress in this tree species, worsen its general condition and lead to tree death.
Why does climate change trigger drought stress in birch trees?
The birch is generally more at risk of drought than other tree species because its roots usually only reach about 1 m deep and the sunny place where it prefers to grow promotes rapid soil drying out. Global climate change increases drought stress because it gives usincreased summersin which itdoes not rain for weeks The long-lasting drought stress weakens the tree and leads to diseases and fungal infestation.
How do I recognize water deficiency in birch trees?
A dry period does not kill a birch tree, but the lack of water becomes visible to the owner if he can read the signs. The affected birch tree has yellow leaves, even if it is still a long time until autumn. Yellow leaves may be followed by leaf loss in summer. Birches on slopes are more affected by drought than birches located close to water.
Do I have to water my birch tree in the garden?
Yes, you should water your birch tree in the garden when the need arises. But you have to know that the birch tree doesn't like soil that is too wet or very dry.
- young birch trees water after planting
- multiplied in the first year of existence
- older treesduring dry periodswatering
- with smaller amounts of water, but more often
How long does birch wood have to dry?
A felled birch tree that is intended to be used as firewood can and should dry well so that a good calorific value is achieved. TheMinimum is 1.5 years Storage time, two years are better.
Tip
With a birch tree in a pot, pay more attention to the water balance
A birch tree in a pot is more affected by drought because the small amount of soil cannot store much water or heats up faster and correspondingly more moisture evaporates. Water such a birch tree regularly as soon as the top layer of soil dries. Even in winter, give it some water on frost-free days.
