Tree removal is high risk work, distressing for the owners and can be expensive – in most cases removing a tree could have been avoided if the right tree had been selected in the first place. Now is the time for Canberrans to be selecting their bare rooted trees – but how do you know what to look for to ensure you get a healthy, strong specimen that will grow up to have a lovely shape?
TreeWorks recommends the following tree selection tips to get the most joy from your trees and garden:
1. Function of the tree: Think about what you want your tree to do. Provide flowers in Spring (see our previous blog)? Dappled shade? Screen out the neighbours? Make sure the tree is right for the job.
2. Height and spread: Make sure the species is suited to the area you want to plant it in – ie will it grow so tall it hits powerlines or spreads over the neighbours?
3. Condition: Once you have decided what species you are after make sure the actual tree you buy looks healthy, has one strong leader, with no wounds or damage to its bark. Try to avoid trees that have a sharp “V” shape fork in their branches as these can potentially split – Pyrus and Eucalyptus are prone to this. Go for trees with a nice rounded fork to improve stability and life of your tree.
And finally, slower growing trees – normally hardwoods tend to live longer and… tempting as it is to buy a big 3 metre specimen, a tree planted small will nearly always do better in the long run. Patience is well rewarded…
TreeWorks is a fully licensed & insured tree removal company and a member of Arboriculture Australia. Our climbers are fully trained and some of our arborists have over 25 years experience in large scale tree surgery and removals.
Call 1300 135 835 or contact us.
TreeWorks …. truly tree-mendous