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AFTERCARE - INDEX |
| Once the tree is planted most people
think that because its native nothing more needs doing. Most trees are lost in their first
year due to lack of aftercare, so it is important to have made provisions in your planning
for aftercare maintenance. Factors which prevent healthy tree growth Weeds- Grasses and other fast growing, leafy perennials will compete with the young trees, depriving them of water, space,light and food. It is important to maintain a 1 sq metre weed free around a tree for at least 3 years. Animals- Rabbit, deer, squirrels and voles are the main problem in the countryside. Whereas vandalism and neglect account for many tree losses in towns and city's. Other factors- Wind, frost, drought and flooding. |
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| Weed control can be managed in various
ways Chemical weed control this must only be used by a person who as a certificate of competence under the Pesticides Control Act 1988. Hand weeding can be time consuming, but could be a good way of involving local communities in the care of their trees. Mulching is a simple and effective way of preventing weed growth and at the same time keeping the surface moist and cool. The area to be mulched must be cleared of weeds before laying and the tree watered in well. There are various types of materials that can be used, leaf litter,well rotted lawn clippings, wood chips, old carpets,and proprietary mulching mats. When mulching simply spread a 100-150mm deep layer around the tree about one metre in diameter, keeping the mulch away from the tree stem to avoid rot starting. One application is usually adequate but if their is poor build of natural leaf litter the trees would benefit from subsequent applications. Mulch mats of thick polythene, bitumen or woven polyproylean are available from various suppliers of forestry products. They are normally 600/750mm square with a slit to allow the mat to fit around the base of the tree. They are not bulky to transport, easily fitted and safer than chemicals. You can make your own out of old carpets, roofing felt or black polythene. Protection from animals needs to be costed on the amount of trees and the shape of the site and type of protection required. To ascertain whether to protect individual trees or erect fencing. Spiral, netlon guards and grow tubes in various heights can protect single trees from voles, rabbits and deers. Stock proof and rabbit proof fencing would be used for larger areas. Staking of larger trees it is advisable to stake trees over 1.5 metres high. The stake should be no higher than 1/3 of stem height, the tie should be a rubber coller with a pad spacer between the tree and stake see insert. inspect trees twice ayear to make sure they are secure and not chafed or constricted by the stake and ties. |
