Appeal Made To Save Trees Threatened By Hot Weather
Wandsworth residents asked to water saplings that are looking parched
A newly planted tree with water 'gator' attached
An appeal is being made to residents across the borough of Wandsworth to help out with the care of newly planted trees during the exceptionally hot weather.
To help keep their streets green and leafy during soaring temperatures, local people are being asked to check on young trees in their neighbourhoods and water them if they’re looking parched.
Over the winter the council planted more than 500 new street trees across the borough and there are concerns that some of these young trees could start to wilt if warm and dry conditions continue.
Many have a plastic tube dug into the ground alongside the trunk which allows water to be poured deep into the soil to help nourish the roots. Others have so called “gator bags” attached which can be filled with water to keep trees in good health.
A council spokesman said, “If there is a newly planted street tree near where you live that looks a bit dry and thirsty please give it some water.
“Every winter the council plants new trees to ensure Wandsworth remains one of London’s leafiest boroughs. Residents can help by keeping an eye on their nearest street tree and giving it a helping hand if it’s needed.”
Every district in Wandsworth saw street trees planted last winter with species including London Plane, Cherry, Lime, Pear, Crab Apple, Rowan, Oak, Hazel, Whitebeam, Maple, Hornbeam and Birch.
In total the council looks after roughly 60,000 trees in its parks, commons and open spaces while around 15,000 grow in residential streets and on the borough’s housing estates.
The borough also boasts a number of local tree wardens. Wandsworth was one of the first urban councils in the country to establish a network of wardens – members of the public who work with the council to keep a close watch on the health and well-being of trees in their neighbourhood.
People can find out more about the Wandsworth Tree Wardens - and how to join their network of volunteers by visiting wandsworthtreewardens.org. Anyone interested in becoming a tree warden should complete this form.
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June 17, 2022