Young's Weeping Birch Betula pendula subsp. pendula 'Youngii'

Water

Young's Weeping Birch should be watered deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to become moist but not waterlogged. During the active growth period in spring and summer, water approximately every 7-10 days, providing 1.5-2 gallons per watering session for a young tree, and more for mature trees depending on their size. In hot and dry conditions, you may need to water more frequently. Reduce watering in the fall and water sparingly in winter, just enough to prevent the soil from completely drying out.

Light

Young's Weeping Birch thrives in full sunlight, meaning it should receive at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. An ideal spot for the plant is an open area with unfiltered sun exposure. The tree can tolerate some light shade, particularly in the hottest parts of the day, but the best growth and form are achieved in full sun.

Temperature

Young's Weeping Birch is hardy and can withstand cold winters, with a capability to survive temperatures down to around -40 degrees Fahrenheit. During the growing season, the ideal temperature range lies between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They can also tolerate higher temperatures, but may require additional watering if temperatures frequently exceed 80 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pruning

Young's Weeping Birch benefits from pruning to maintain its weeping form and remove any dead or diseased branches. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This is also the time to shape the tree or correct any structural imbalances. Pruning may be required yearly, but always aim to remove as little as necessary to preserve the tree's natural shape.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Young's Weeping Birch thrives in well-draining, loamy to sandy soil with a pH range from slightly acidic to neutral. A mix of one-third sand, one-third garden soil, and one-third peat or compost is ideal to provide the right structure and nutrients.

Repotting

As Young's Weeping Birch is a tree, it is not typically repotted. It is planted outdoors and allowed to grow without repotting.

Humidity & Misting

Young's Weeping Birch prefers moderate humidity conditions but is adaptable and can thrive in the varying humidity levels found in most outdoor environments.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Not suited for indoors; requires open space, sun, and well-draining soil.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, provide ample water, and ensure soil drainage.

• Hardiness zone

  2-7 USDA

Life cycle

The Young's Weeping Birch (Betula pendula subsp. pendula 'Youngii') begins its life cycle with seed germination, typically occurring in spring when soil temperatures warm up. After germination, it enters the seedling stage, where it prioritizes root development and initial shoot growth. The sapling stage follows as the tree develops its distinctive weeping form, with branches growing downward. The tree reaches maturity in several years, during which it develops its reproductive structures; catkins appear in early spring for wind pollination. The mature tree then produces seeds encased in small cones, completing its reproductive cycle. Throughout its life, the Young's Weeping Birch undergoes annual cycles of leaf growth in the spring and leaf abscission in the fall, coupled with periods of dormancy during the winter months.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The European Weeping Birch or Young's Weeping Birch can be propagated through grafting, which is the most popular method for this particular tree. Grafting is typically done during the dormant season, which is late winter or early spring. In this process, a stem with leaf buds is inserted into the stock of a tree, so that the tissues can fuse. The scion, which is the upper part of the graft, should be from a healthy, disease-free plant. It is carefully selected for the quality of the foliage and form that one desires to replicate. The rootstock, generally from a common birch, is chosen for its vigor and adaptability to local conditions. The grafted joint is then bound and sealed to prevent disease and drying out. Over time, the two pieces grow together, forming a new, grafted birch tree that displays the desirable characteristics of the 'Youngii' variety.