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First Dispatch Date: 9th November 2026
Alder Tree - Description
- Bare Root Alder Trees
- Common Alder
- Alnus glutinosa
- Bundle of 5 Trees
- Fast Growing and Hardy Native Tree
- Current Plant Size: 2–3ft (60–90cm)
- Single Stem Whip
- Plant Age: 1 + 2 Years
- Form: Bare Root
- Supplied without a Container or Pot
Alder Tree - Characteristics
- Native Irish deciduous tree with a naturally upright and columnar growth habit
- Fast growing once established
- Dark green foliage with rounded leaves and irregularly toothed margins
- One of the earlier native trees to come into leaf in spring
- Leaves remain on the tree relatively late into autumn before falling
- Produces distinctive catkins in spring
- Develops attractive small cones which remain on the tree after seed release
- Mature size can reach approximately 12m tall with a spread of up to 8m
- Very hardy and well suited to Irish growing conditions
- Particularly well adapted to moist and wet soils
- Strong root system makes Alder valuable for stabilising riverbanks and wet ground
Alder Tree - Uses
- Excellent choice for large gardens and rural properties
- Ideal for native hedgerows and wildlife planting
- Suitable for establishing natural windbreaks and visual screening
- Useful for stabilising soil and banks in suitable wet areas
- Fast growing tree for creating structure relatively quickly
- Well suited to damp, poorly drained or heavier soils
- Can be incorporated into mixed native woodland and hedgerow planting
- Provides valuable habitat and food resources for wildlife
Alder Tree - Planting Instructions
Planting Time
- Bare root Alder should be planted during the dormant season from October to March.
- Plant as soon as possible after receiving the trees.
- Avoid planting when the ground is frozen or during severe frosty conditions.
- Keep the roots protected and moist if planting is temporarily delayed.
Positioning Trees
- Choose a sunny or lightly shaded position.
- Alder is particularly well suited to moist, damp and heavier soils.
- Position each tree at approximately the same depth as it was previously growing.
- Backfill with suitable topsoil and firm the soil carefully around the roots.
- Ensure each tree is planted upright and level off the soil around the base.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
- Support young trees with a suitable stake where required, particularly in exposed positions.
After Care
- Water thoroughly after planting and regularly during dry periods until established.
- Keep the planting area free from competing weeds and grass.
- Weeding is particularly important during the first few years while the trees establish.
- Avoid strimming or mowing directly around the base of young trees.
- Maintain a weed-free area around each tree to encourage strong establishment and growth.
Alder Tree - Quick Facts
- Commonly found growing along riverbanks, streams and other damp areas.
- The strong root system helps stabilise soil and riverbanks.
- Alder wood is traditionally known as "Irish Mahogany" because of its attractive reddish colouring.
- The wood has been used historically for shields, furniture and other woodworking applications.
- A valuable native tree for supporting biodiversity and wildlife.
- Alnus glutinosa is native to Ireland and naturally suited to the Irish climate.