New Street Trees The location and type of new trees on highways are determined by the following factors:
- Presence of underground services
- Size of the street
- Views of individual residents
- Local character of the area
- Availability of certain species
- Avoidance of potential problems in the future such as pedestrian access etc.
Only smaller ornamental trees are recommended in residential streets. Once planted, they are maintained as part of the three-year routine maintenance cycle.
How are new trees looked after?
In order to aid their establishment, trees should be planted as early in the planting season as possible, between November and March.
Once planted, each tree is staked for support and mulched in order to avoid the establishment of weeds. Each tree is also watered during the first growing season, between May and August. Approximately 40 litres is provided on each visit, during which any other problems are also checked.
During the first growing season watering is especially important and local residents are encouraged to help trees outside or near their property by watering them on dry and windy days (10-20 litres/2-5 gallons per week). This can be done via the plastic tube protruding from the earth at the base of the tree, which is buried around its roots. Both dish and bath water, which are rich in nutritional phosphates, are also suitable.
Ask the Tree Officer!
Q. How can I request that a tree is planted on my street?
A. Click here to complete the online tree problem form or call 020 7525 2000.
Q. I'd like to have trees planted all the way down my street. Do I have to get a petition together with my neighbours or can I make a request by myself?
A. You can make a request by yourself but involving your neighbours is the best method since the more signatures received the more priority is given.
Q. Can I request that trees are planted on a street or estate even if I don't live there?
A. Yes!
Q. I'd like a tree planted outside my house but there are lots of manholes in the pavement - is this going to be a problem?
A. Possibly. The potential to plant new trees at a site often depends on the presence of underground services such as sewers, electric cables etc. Where these are too close together or there is a safety concern, trees cannot be planted. The laying of cable TV has unfortunately resulted in a number of streets where we are not able to plant any street trees.
Q. The pavement area outside my house is very narrow but I'd like to have a tree planted - is this possible?
A. Yes, providing that there are no underground services, that no access points or sight lines are affected and that your neighbours agree!
Q. Who decides what species are planted and is there a reason for this?
A. Only suitable species are chosen in order to avoid potential problems such as damage to the footpath and buildings, blocked light etc. and to ensure survival and adaption to harsh growing conditions. The tree section can advise on any suggestions residents might have.
Q. What are the rules about planting trees near street lights?
A. Trees must be planted at least 3 to 4 metres away from lamp columns. |