I grew a silver birch in a half barrel did really well. I moved house and rather than risk losing it I gave it to a friend to put in her garden but it grew beautifully for 8 years and was about 8 foot tall when I gave it away.
This could be the answer for tree lovers living with a small or rented garden. The great/blue and long tailed tits love our silver birch - they are one of the top trees for attracting wildlife.
The silver birch in the picture are tall and slender, some birch are pendulous, so I would suggest the upright type if you are able to make room for any Valley. They make an excellent screen to hide buildings overlooking your property. The pots are not cheap though, probably more expensive than the trees.
Gorgeous pots but mine did well in just a half barrel with regular feeding and top dressing. I live in rented houses but love silver birch in fact this post has inspired me to try again going to hunt around for a really huge pot!
I'd love one in the garden,especially if the birds like them,they are lovely trees,but we're a bit limited for space.
How big is the garden? We have one, not sure of age, but figure it's getting on 20 or more years. And it's slender, with a high crown. The crown also isn't that oppressive, and it has a light and delicate leaf. So I see this as a neighbour friendly and suitable tree, even for 'smallish' gardens. I've noticed quite close plantations of these, and they still don't feel that overwhelming. I'd love the room for a good group of them.
Deborahatkinson1957
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If you live in Derbyshire, as I do.
The pots above are nice too.