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River Birch Live Stakes


Thrives in Zones 4 - 9


River Birch Live Stakes is ideal for quick growth and erosion control, establish rapidly, offering a robust solution for wet or challenging areas.

Fast-growing and adaptable to various soils

Provides excellent erosion control and stability

Attracts beneficial wildlife to your garden

Choose Qty (Buy More, Save More): 25
Choose Size: 1-2'
7-10 Days

River Birch Live Stakes - Betula nigra

That shade-giving, wide canopied tree with the peeling park you may find along streams and rivers is none other than River Birch Live Stakes (Betula nigra). This live stake is a rooted cutting that is ready to be put into the ground. It is a swift grower that adores wet conditions, thriving in places where the moist soil requires extra stability. Its ability to stabilize erosion zones is almost instant due to its strong, shallow root system. The canopy produced by this tree creates beneficial shade and shelter enjoyed by humans and animals alike.

Plant Details - River Birch Live Stakes

Family: Betulaceae

Light Requirement: Full Sun – Partial Shade

Water Needs: Medium - High

Height: 30-70 ft.

Spread: 25-50 ft.

Growth Rate: Fast

Bloom Time: Spring

Flower Color: Subtle brown, yellow, or green catkins

Wildlife Value: Twigs used as nesting material, provides shelter & food for wildlife

This plant thrives in some of the wettest soils, including places with moderate flooding. It can handle any type of soil, whether loamy, sandy, or clay – it is not picky! It simply needs a planting location with moderate drainage to prevent full waterlogging of the roots. The unique flowers are inconspicuous hanging catkins, with the tree producing both male and female structures on the same plant. Following pollination, winged seeds called samaras flow from the plant as a natural means of spreading. This tree is an absolute favorite for birds, squirrels, and other local critters, making it a true staple in the ecosystem.

Landscape Uses and Maintenance - River Birch Live Stakes

Most effective when grown for erosion control and soil stabilization, this tree makes quick work of sloping, poor soils. It grows quickly with very little need for maintenance. When the plant is young, it is recommended to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the stem to help lock in moisture and encourage optimal growth early on. To help establish this cutting, water your River Birch Live Stakes deeply a few times a week if they are planted away from a natural moisture source. If pruning is required for ideal shaping be sure to do so in the late summer or early fall to maintain the health of the tree.

Noteworthy Characteristics

River Birch Live Stakes are immediately identifiable as it quickly grows and produces the iconic peeling bark that is very similar to paper. When peeled, you can even write on it, which children have tons of fun with when exploring the natural wonders of this tree.

This Is How Your Plants Will Look upon Delivery

Bare Root Plants
Height at Maturity icon

Height at Maturity

Over 25 Feet

Care icon

Care

River Birch live stakes thrive in moist, well-drained soil. Ensure consistent watering, especially during dry periods. Trim annually to hold shape and remove dead limbs. Fertilize in spring for best growth. These stakes are resilient but benefit from regular care.

Plant Reproduction icon

Plant Reproduction

River Birch Live Stakes spread through sprouting from planted cuttings.

How to Grow and Care for Live Tree Stakes

Live tree stakes are cuttings from dormant hardwood trees that can be planted directly into the soil to root and grow into mature trees—an excellent method for erosion control, streambank stabilization, and natural habitat creation. Common species used for live staking include willow, dogwood, and cottonwood, all known for their ability to root quickly in moist environments.

To plant live tree stakes, choose a site with moist, well-drained soil and good sun exposure. Stakes should be 2–3 feet long and about ½–1 inch thick, with healthy bark and no signs of disease. Insert each stake into the ground with the cut (bottom) end down, leaving only the top 2–3 inches exposed above the soil. At least two-thirds of the stake should be buried to ensure strong root development.

Water well after planting, especially in dry conditions, and keep the area weed-free while the stake establishes. No fertilizer is needed. With the right conditions and proper planting, live tree stakes will root and grow into vigorous, self-sustaining trees that support the land and local ecosystem.

Shipping date depends on the date displayed and chosen when you order from the product's page.

We do not accept returned plants. If you purchased an extended warranty we do accept claims, please navigate to the warranty page for instructions HERE

River Birch Live Stakes - TN Nursery
River Birch Live Stakes25 / 1-2' Sale price $99.99

Proper Sunlight
Happy Plants

River Birch live stakes thrive best in full sun to partial shade. They favor at least 6 hours of total sunlight daily but can tolerate some shade, particularly in warmer climates. Ensure good soil drainage for optimal growth.

Start your dream garden today

Our mission is to provide high-quality, sustainably grown plants that empower every gardener to make a lasting impact—one root at a time.

HASSLE FREE What are the benefits of River Birch Live Stakes?
Rapidly grows with minimal maintenance required
Tolerates wet soils and flooding conditions
Attractive peeling bark adds visual interest
BARE ROOT PLANTS ARE BETTER Growing is easier with Bare Root Plants TN Nursery offers a breathtaking variety of regionally adapted plants that thrive with minimal effort. Expert guidance enables choosing the right species for your soil and climate
Easier to Grow Bareroot dormant plants are more hardy because they adapt better to new environments,
Cost Effective With no heavy pots or soil, you'll save 50-60% on shipping costs, and can easily plant yourself
Better Growth Bare root plants are shipped without soil or pots, making them lightweight and easy to handle.
Eco-Friendly Bare root native plants are a sustainable choice that support biodiversity, use less water, and thrive with minimal maintenance.
Features
Why You Will Love Our River Birch Live Stakes

Rapid Establishment: 

River Birch Live Stakes quickly take root and grow, providing fast results for your garden or landscape.

Adaptable to Wet Conditions: 

Perfect for areas with poor drainage, River Birch Live Stakes thrive in wet or soggy soils.

Erosion Control: 

Ideal for stabilizing soil, these live stakes help prevent erosion and improve the stability of your landscape.

Aesthetic Appeal: 

They develop into beautiful trees with distinctive, peeling bark, adding visual interest to your landscape.

They’re blooming beautifully and adding a touch of elegance to my shaded garden areas. Excellent quality!
– Tyler Noah, Verified Buyer
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Customer Reviews

Based on 5 reviews
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gale miko
River Birch Live Stakes

I ordered 25 live river birch stakes. They arrived on schedule, ready to plant. Packaged and marked clearly along with planting instructions. Nice size stakes and very healthy. Got them all planted. About 12 days later they started getting leaves so I'm sure the roots are forming nicely. Nice to be able to get 25 at a time. Most places have a minimum order of 100 PC. Also ordered cattail punks and a safrass tree which all came in great condition, nice size, healthy and well marked. Will definitely order from them again and recommend TN nursery. Thank you so much for a lovely experiance. Can't wait to see them growing.

L
Laura Torres
River Birch Live Stakes

Am witnessing the beauty of this variety while winter sets in. I so love this tree and ordering more at TN nursery

H
Helen Oneil
River Birch Live Staks

These arrived in great shape and packaged nicely. I got them planted.. Can't wait to see what they look like in the spring.

M
Michael Boston
River Birch Live Staks

Got the planted all around the yard. Excited to watch them grow.

R
Reagan Rogers
Must have

I highly will tell anyone to get these live stakes because they are all the same size and will grow together.

Frequently asked questions

Still have a question? Contact us here.

Do you ship overseas?

Yes, we ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout. We run discounts and promotions all year, so stay tuned for exclusive deals.

How long will it take to get my orders?

It depends on where you are. Orders processed here will take 5-7 business days to arrive. Overseas deliveries can take anywhere from 7-16 days. Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.

Any question?

You can contact us through our contact page! We will be happy to assist you.