PRESS RELEASE

30th November 2007

Branching out with Cheshire Wildlife Trust

It’s the start of the winter tree planting season and Cheshire Wildlife Trust is urging nature lovers to get out and about to enjoy the county’s wooded areas and to think about planting trees in their gardens or on their own land.

Cheshire has only 4% tree coverage, which is less than half of the national average, making it all the more important to appreciate our wooded spaces and identify the right trees and the right places to plant more.

As well as aesthetically enhancing any area, trees help diversify wildlife habitats and can provide important shelter in open spaces as well as improve human quality of life by helping to moderate the climate.

Sue Tatman, Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s wildlife gardening officer, says, “Trees are extremely important to our ecosystem, giving food and shelter to a wide variety of creatures, so it’s essential to educate people about when and where trees can be planted. They are also a beautiful part of nature, so those who are keen to see our trees, hedges and green areas expand should start exploring.”

People should consider using the space in their garden or land to plant more trees and help enrich the natural environment. But if they don’t have the space to plant some trees, enjoy days out to some of Cheshire’s precious tree covered spaces. The old medieval hunting forests of Delamere and Macclesfield are good examples of coniferous woodland and Tatton Park has some ancient woodlands and meres that make for a pleasant winter walk.

Top of the tree tips for planting

• Choose the right variety of tree as some are more suitable to be planted near buildings to avoid subsidence.
• Good garden varieties include hazel, rowan, birch, hawthorn and field maple.
• Check out the size of the trees when fully grown to make sure it suits the surrounding space. Make sure the site has enough space both above and below the ground for spread of canopy and roots.
• Consider which animals will be attracted to the trees and which animals may be a threat to the tree.
  Find out how much maintenance is required.
• Be aware that in some instances permission may be needed.

To find out how you can help the work of Cheshire Wildlife Trust by becoming a member call 01948 820 728

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