Birch Forests in Naturpark Thüringer Schiefergebirge/Obere Saale

It is really a dream
The birch is a harbinger: As the first domestic deciduous tree, it shows its green dress in spring. The first is wherever brownfields have to be repopulated. As a pioneer tree species, it literally prepares the ground for subsequent trees such as oak or beech - until it is gradually replaced by them. Pure birch forests are therefore rare in Germany. Of the countless species, the silver birch and the swamp birch are particularly common among us. Both are easily recognized by their white bark. At first it is smooth, later thin pieces that are reminiscent of paper come off. Birch bark actually served as a substitute for paper in ancient times. 
Declaration of love by birchIn many cultures and regions, trees had (and still have) a special mythological meaning. The oak stands for strength and steadfastness, the pine for endurance and modesty, the fir for beauty and vitality. The birch is the symbol of light and the awakening of spring. This symbolism has survived in the maypole. Of the different customs around the maypole, the love may is one of the most beautiful: on the night of May 1st, the unmarried men of a village of their chosen ones place a small, decorated birch in front of the house - as a sign of their favor and their love.waldkulturerbe.de/den-wald-erleben/auf-einen-klick/waldwissen/die-birke