TREE officers recently attended an event to learn about best practices in tree planting and aftercare.

A workshop on tree establishment was held at Exeter Science Park last month, co-hosted by Treeconomics, GreenBlue Urban and Barcham Trees.

The day aimed to equip tree managers with the knowledge and skills to help ensure the trees they manage thrive and reach their full potential. Topics covered included site selection (where to plant), tree selection and specification (what to plant), and correct installation of engineered tree pits (how to plant).

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As well as being taken through informative presentations, participants also witnessed an outdoor examination of both well-planted and poorly-planted trees at the site. One particular tree, excavated for this event, had failed to thrive because it was originally supplied with a poor root system. 

Forestry Journal: As well as being taken through informative presentations, participants also witnessed an outdoor examination of both well-planted and poorly-planted trees As well as being taken through informative presentations, participants also witnessed an outdoor examination of both well-planted and poorly-planted trees (Image: Supplied)

The issue of how to correctly specify in order to avoid this challenge was addressed in the presentation given by Barcham Trees. Another excavated tree had failed to survive because it was planted too deeply and the irrigation system was incorrectly installed.

A Treeconomics spokesperson: “We’re thrilled to have had such a great turnout for this workshop.

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“It’s encouraging to see so many professionals in the field come together to learn about best practice in tree planting and care.

“We hope that the knowledge from this workshop will assist in the creation of more sustainable and resilient treescapes.”