River Birch Trees Are Losing Lots Of Small Leafless Branches

Question From: J. Speegle - ALABAMA
Q: I have 3 beautiful river burch trees that are about 12 years old. They are losing lots of small branches or stems (non with leaves) for the last 2 weeks. What is the problem and is there somethings I should do to stop these branches from falling?

A: Sounds like they are shedding small dead branches that were damaged over the winter. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy