Planting best practice

All plants and planting works must be in accordance with clause 3006 of the Manual of Contract Documents for Highway Works and Appendix 30/6 of the council’s Specification. It is essential that the roots of all bare-rooted stock are covered, kept moist and not allowed to dry out to avoid decline and failure of the plant.

Planting conditions

It is also important that plants are appropriately planted, and all roots are covered with friable soil which should be firmed so the plants stand upright. Although all roots must be covered, it is equally important that plants are not planted too deeply. The plants must be planted at the same level on the stem as they were when they were in the nursery. Large stock, such as standard trees, should initially be supported with stakes and ties and all plants must be protected against browsing animals such as rabbits.

Tree grills

Tree grills should only be used where there is an expectation for significant footfall, and where they are fitted must be easily removed. Grills should normally accord with the details included in Appendix 30/12 of the council’s Specification. Although grills provide a neat appearance and prevent compaction to the surrounding soil, they are expensive and can severely obstruct the growth of the tree if not regularly checked and eventually removed.  

Tree irrigation

Water and irrigation systems must be provided to ensure that failures are minimised.

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Diagram showing tree planting specification for hard surface areas, including an irrigation pipe, double staking, guys around anchors, ratio of soil types and mulch

Figure 55: Tree planting specification for hard surface areas

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Photo showing well planted trees of species suitable for the location

Figure 56: well planted trees of species suitable for the location

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