Downy Birch

Description

Betula pubescens is commonly known as downy birch, with other common names including moor birch, white birch, European white birch or hairy birch often confused for Silver birch. It is a deciduous tree growing to 10 to 20 m (33 to 66 ft) tall, can grow in wet places with heavy soils and poor drainage. Can get a brown dye from the bark if set with Alum.

If using in as  hedge: All species in a wildlife hedge can be cut back or “Coppiced” without harm. In the 1st year after establishment the hedge can be cut back to stimulate growth of the hedge from the base thereafter cut every 2-3 years. If the weather is unsuitable for planting or receiving the hedging, dig a hole and bury the roots of the bunched plants, they can be held like that till planting. After planting it is advantageous to mulch the hedge with lawn mowing or leaf mould to suppress weeds and also be done with plastic or carpet cuts and covered with soil.