Local authorities are still the biggest purchaser of trees for the urban environment.Many people felt the economic squeeze would affect their purchasing power,in fact it has changed the way they buy trees,instead of ordering trees with a girth of 20-25cm they are now ordering 16-18cm.
Smaller ornamental varieties like Sorbus,cherry ,field maple are becoming more popular because of their smaller root systems growing up to 4min height which fits in with the smaller street sizes but there is still strong demand for the traditional lime,birch and oak trees planted in traditional avenues and boulevards.
Clients are more anxious to have trees in urban car parks,to create a greener environment,a mixture of sizes prevent the look of uniformity ,tall trees with clear stems and no protruding branches are popular,so cars can park beneath.Landscapers will try to avoid trees which attract aphids and create a sticky sap,which is unpopular with motorists.
Weeds are another problem,growing rapidly around new planted trees and can compete for water.
Mike Oldfield from Peak surfacing states"although expensive,resin bound tree pits give a attractive finish around the trees,making it difficult for weeds to grow but still allowing water and nutrients to reach the tree roots."
Resin bound surfacing also allows for mechanical cleansing around trees, and a reduction in litter associated with traditional grilles.
Peak Surfacing can be contacted on 01142 299865 m 07974 475518
Comments
Hi Jennifer Jane
A tree pit is normally found when you palnt a tree in a area of hard paving,sometimes a metal grid is added to give the area a bit of rigidity.when the ground is dug out and the tree ball inserted it is then back filled,normally around 50-100mm of loose stone is added then 50mm of resin bound gravel is poured ontop,so you have no loose stones.