Replace the White Birch With River Birches In The Trenton NJ
Area
If you have had trouble planting a tree the River Birch is a
choice that is easy to transplant. They are adaptable and grow
fast. These trees do not seem to be bothered by the Bronzed
Birch Borer which has killed off many White Birches used in
urban landscape near Trenton NJ.
When I was in the 8th grade I would go fishing along the
Delaware River at night. I would camp along the river bank and
fish into the wee hours of the night. I am always drifting back
to those childhood memories when I pass a river birch tree that
is highlighted by lights at night. The nightime interest that
this tree expresses can help capture moments for you. The main
feature of this medium sized spreading tree is its colorful
peeling bark. This builds up on the stem and main branches in
soft curling layers of orange, pink, grey and brown. Another
great advantage of this species is its tolerance of wet soil and
seasonal flooding making it an ideal pond or riverbank tree.
Specimens often develop multiple stems which increases the
attractiveness its shaggy bark. As an ornamental tree it also
has bright green, toothed leaves and long yellow clusters of
catkins in early spring. It will have a spreading root system
that will check erosion. It is hardy and will seldom blow down.
The plant is native to the eastern states from Massachusetts to
Florida. The range continues along the Gulf of Mexico and into
Texas.
At most nurseries you could expect the following prices on
birches (Not all sizes and types shown) Betula Nigra Dura Heat
River Birch 6-8' clump $125.00 8-10' clump $150.00 Betula Nigra
Heritage River Birch Clump 6-8' clump $150.00 8-10' clump
$175.00 12-18" seedlings @ $2.00 ea. and 1250 18-24" seedlings @
$3.00 ea. If you need more help on selecting plants go to the
following web Sites: http://www.zone5trees.com
http://www.seedlingsrus.com and http://www.highlandhillfarm.com