Question
We planted a new cluster of white paper birch in early June.  The leaves are now turning a bright yellow like they would in the fall and it is only early July.  What would be causing this and what can we do to help the tree?

Answer
Stress from the planting. I would water with 1 inch of water every third day unless it rains. Place a pan under the tree and turn the sprinkler on  and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop. Do this for about a month then change to once a week. If you have not done so mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch not pile up on the trunk. I assume the trees were properly planted and the top of the rootball was planted at ground level and not too deep. Summer plantings are rough on trees most should be planted in early spring or the Fall. But with proper watering the tree should be ok. Do not fertilize for the first year.