White Birch
Betula papyrifera
Active Threats to White Birch
LDD Moth (Spongy Moth)
Formerly known as Gypsy Moth. Caterpillars defoliate trees in late spring, with periodic outbreak years causing severe damage.
Signs to watch for:
- •Visible caterpillars with blue and red spots
- •Skeletonized or completely eaten leaves
- •Egg masses on tree trunks (tan, fuzzy patches)
- •Frass (caterpillar droppings) under trees
Recommended Action: Healthy trees typically survive defoliation. Repeated years of heavy feeding may require professional intervention.
Free consultation available
Overview
Iconic native tree with cultural significance, historically used for canoe construction
Indigenous peoples used the bark for canoes, baskets, and shelters. Remains culturally important symbol of Canadian wilderness
Identification
Leaves
Ovate leaves with doubly serrated margins and pointed tips. Turn bright yellow in fall.
Bark
Distinctive white papery bark peeling in horizontal strips with dark horizontal lenticels. Older portions at base turn dark brown to black.
Flowers
Male catkins are long and pendulous, female catkins are shorter and upright, appearing before leaves emerge.
Fruit
Small winged seeds dispersed from cone-like structures in fall and winter.
🦆 Valuable wildlife food source
Growing Conditions
Climate
Well-adapted to cold climates but struggles with urban heat and drought stress
Hardiness Zones: 2, 3, 4a, 4b, 5a
Light Requirements
Soil
Moisture: moist
Drainage: well-drained
pH Range: 5 - 7.5
Tolerance
Care & Maintenance
Pruning
Best Season: August-November
Frequency: Minimal pruning recommended
- Prune in August-November to avoid heavy sap bleeding
- Remove dead branches as needed
- Avoid heavy pruning which stresses the tree
Avoid: Late winter through spring when sap flows heavily
Watering
Establishment: Regular watering for first 2-3 years
Mature: Requires consistent moisture
Seasonal Care Timeline
Spring
- First generation of birch leafminer emerges
- Heavy sap flow if pruned
- Monitor for stress
Summer
- Drought stress critical issue
- Bronze birch borer attacks stressed trees
- Requires consistent moisture
Fall
- Brilliant yellow fall color
- Good time for pruning if necessary
- Monitor tree health
Winter
- Attractive white bark stands out
- Check for borer damage
- Protect young trees from wildlife
Common Issues
Bronze Birch Borer
SevereDestructive beetle that attacks stressed birch trees
Symptoms: Crown dieback, D-shaped exit holes in bark, Yellowing leaves
Treatment: Remove and destroy infested trees, cannot be saved once heavily infested
Prevention: Maintain tree health, adequate watering, avoid stress
Professional arborist recommended
Birch Leafminer
ModerateSawfly larvae that mine between leaf surfaces
Symptoms: Brown blotches on leaves, Premature leaf drop
Treatment: Systemic insecticide in spring if severe
Prevention: Maintain tree vigor, adequate moisture
Quick Facts
When to Call an Arborist
Recommended inspection: Annual inspection recommended, especially in urban settings
- •Crown dieback or thinning
- •D-shaped holes in bark
- •Yellowing leaves during growing season
- •Significant lean
- •Extensive pest damage
Free consultation for Belleville residents
Recommended Services
Based on White Birch characteristics