Black Alder or Hazel

SecretGarden · Posted: Wed Oct 11, 2017 8:22 pm Post subject: Black Alder or Hazel

I was advised to post my query here - apologies for posting in two sections
http://www.gardenplansireland.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=58823#58823
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I planted black alder and hazel in a close group a few years ago and I'm unable distinguish one from the other .

What are the distinguishing features - at the moment they are both approx the same height and as they were planted close together they appear to have the same habit
Thanks in advance

Silver surfer · Posted: Wed Oct 11, 2017 8:34 pm Post subject:

Alnus glutinosa..alder leaves look like this......

http://www-saps.plantsci.cam.ac.uk/trees/images/leaves/5.jpg

Corylus avelana ...hazel leaves are more pointed on the tip

https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/media/100741955/hazel-leaf-paul-sterry-npl.jpg?cb=32aeedb0a35e4f83bf8f0eb6b1126ab5&preset=content_page_image.

If you look carefully the hazel should have baby catkins already.

http://www.seasonalwildflowers.com/uploads/images/hazel/web%205.jpg

Not a good idea to have them too close.
Alders are fast growing trees...hazel are more bushy.

SecretGarden · Posted: Wed Oct 11, 2017 9:17 pm Post subject:

Ah thank you Silver Surfer - that's exactly what I was seeking

I'll go down tomorrow to check them.

Silver surfer · Posted: Thu Oct 12, 2017 8:05 am Post subject:

Hmm!
Don't think that will be possible.
Cut the whole lot down, dig out all roots and start again.
Alnus glutinosa is a very boring tree...it constantly drops bottom branched like javlins.
It has no glorious autumn colour...no pretty flower.

There are so much better trees to plant. eg rowan, crab apple etc etc.

tagwex · Posted: Thu Oct 12, 2017 8:09 am Post subject:

See, an answer within 12 minutes, some service huh!?