QuestionsHow to growTrees and ShrubsPruningsilver birch 0 Vote Up Vote Down sinead Hayden asked 17 years ago we want to trim silver beech tree that my late father planted. my family would like to use the branches/cuttings to grow this tree in their gardens. can you please advise best time to trim and best way to ensure successful results for them. 1 Answers 0 Vote Up Vote Down Gerry Daly Staff answered 8 years ago Trimming a birch should only be done to the lower branches to allow light underneath, not the top. It does not root from cuttings.