Question
Hi,

I planted a new river birch tree (10'-12') last week, today I notice after three very hot, humid days the tops of the tree have severally wilted over. Can you advise on what the impact is...i.e. will the tree be stunted permanently or just for several years, etc.

Thanks,
Dan


Answer
River birch as the name implies grow near water and need more water than most trees. This is why it is wilting. If you have not done so mulch around the tree with not more than 3 inches deep of organic mulch (pine straw is good) and not pile up on the trunk. Water every third day with 1 inch of water -place a pan under the tree and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop. I would water every third day for a month and then cut back to once a week. I would not fertilize the tree for a year. This will allow the roots to grow. The tree will not be stunted permanently but should recover. Newly planted trees especially larger ones will have some die back from the shock of the planting but hardwood trees will re-leaf and put on new growth. water on birch is the key to getting it established.