Description
I am confident in stating that this is probably one of the most important species of the lake/pond and stream/river shoreline. This colonial, thicket forming species of the birch family will throw down a mighty root system that keeps erosion in check and thus water quality high. It grows to about 10 feet tall which puts it into the line of fire on lake shores because of the view blocking anxiety it seems to induce. The solution? Cut it back every few years, if you must, but let the root system stay in place. This keeps the shore line intact and still employs most of the benefits of this species. There’s more fun stuff happening underground; the roots of speckled alder house nitrogen fixing bacteria. They have the ability to take atmospheric nitrogen and turn it in to a bioavailable form of nitrogen, an element absolutely critical for life. Thick stem growth creates habitat for many animals, especially birds.
Speckled alder is probably the primary species used in wetland restoration. If you need a “ton of ’em”, just let me know, as they are usually available in large quantities, from a dozen to hundreds. Discount prices will accompany larger quantities.
18″-24″ tall in 1.5 gallon pots
