So let them go

Remove birch - yes or no?

Birch trees are one of the true survivors under the trees. Even in poor conditions, they grow and thrive. That is why it is not so easy to let the birch die. In addition, trees are generally under protection in Germany. In order not to come into conflict with the law in your project, you should carefully check the tree protection statutes for your region.

Let the birch die by ringing

Ringing is a traditional forestry method that allows you to reliably remove unwanted birch trees. You cut a ten centimeter wide strip from the bark and the cambium wood of the trunk underneath. This interrupts the flow of sap and thus the supply of nutrients: the tree gradually dies. The process works without chemical aids - and of course without it to fell the birch. The disadvantage is that it takes some time. Meanwhile, it is important to keep your distance, as the individual dying branches gradually fall from the tree.

Instructions for curling

1. You can do the ringing on your own. However, since the entire procedure is quite strenuous and time-consuming, the help of one or more strong people is recommended.
2. Peel off a five to ten centimeter wide strip of bark all around in the lower trunk area. A draw knife is the most suitable tool for this step.
3. Unruly, inwardly curved pieces of the bark are best removed with a tear hook or finishing knife.
4. Once the bark is completely removed, scratch the one underneath Cambium carefully out - again around the trunk. A wire brush can be used for this.

Important instructions

It is best to do the ringing in midsummer. During this period the Birch from blossom exhausted and there are fewer nutrients in the upper plant areas. Make sure you only remove the bark and cambium. If the wood lying under the cambium is damaged, a rotting process occurs. This can turn the dying tree into a major source of danger.