• Trees: planting scheme design

Trees: planting scheme design

Planting schemes are typically put together by landscape architects, but the input of an arboriculturist can be important to ensure that the right trees are planted in the right way so that they survive and thrive.

Tree position: the right tree in the right place

We start by selecting the right species for the space allotted to it. One of the first considerations is the  ultimate height and spread of the tree. Planting trees that will ultimately be too big for their location creates costs down the line through the need to constantly prune them. We also consider:
suitability for the soil type,
tolerance of site conditions,
microclimate,
likely tolerance of projected climatic changes,
possible changes in site use,
shading effects.

Selection of tree species for landscape and habitat continuity

In some locations, it may be necessary to choose species that are in keeping with the existing treescape, for example, London plane (Platanus x hispanica) in central London. In others, it may be suitable to choose native species that provide a habitat or habitat connectivity for animal species that use trees for food or nesting.

Functional trees

Trees may be needed to fulfil an environmental function, such as providing shade, damping noise or reducing particulate pollution. Not all trees are equally efficient in carrying out these functions. We recommend the species that will provide the maximum benefit, and advise on the right densities and planting patterns.

Types of tree stock

There are many choices to be made when buying trees. Nursery trees can be bare rooted, root-balled or container grown; seedlings, small trees (whips) or semi-mature specimens to confer an instant mature landscape. We advise on which options are best for your design and the planting site.

Sourcing healthy stock

It is vital to select healthy specimens that will survive in the often hostile conditions in which they are planted, and that will grow without defects. We advise on where to obtain the best stock, preferably of local provenance so that it is well suited to local growing conditions. We also carefully check purchased plants to ensure that they are healthy, free of disease and of good form.

Tree establishment and maintenance

We set up a programme for tree establishment and post-planting maintenance regimes to ensure that newly planted trees are transported, handled and planted in the right way, and that, once planted, they are watered, weeded and fertilised regularly until established. In this way we can make sure that they survive and thrive.

For more specific advice on your planting scheme, please call us on 01483 466000.