Downy Birch

Downy Birch prefers to be watered regularly but not too often. During the spring and summer when the weather is hot, the plant should be watered twice a week, allowing the top inch or 2 of soil to dry out between waterings. For the colder months of autumn and winter, the plant should only be watered once or twice a month. When watering, thoroughly soak the soil until water runs out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot. Always be sure to provide plenty of water for the plant’s health and growth.

Downy Birch (Betula pubescens) thrives best in partial sunlight or dappled shade. This tree should receive 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day, preferably in the morning. Avoid direct sunlight in the afternoon as this can be damaging to the leaves. A sunny location is ideal for Downy Birch, which will tolerate shade but may not flower or grow to its full potential.

Downy birch should be pruned in the late winter/early spring. The goal is to thin out the canopy in order to encourage new growth and better air circulation. Pruning should be done carefully since it can cause damage if done improperly. When pruning, remove any dead, diseased or broken branches. Also remove any shoots or branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, as well as watersprouts and branches that are growing outside the canopy’s natural shape. When thinning, make sure to cut 1/3 of the branches back to their origin and don't leave any stubs. It is typically best to only remove a branch if its size is greater than 1/3 of the total stem or root. In addition, prune only as much as necessary and avoid cutting excessively.