Trees Need Space to Grow

Planting trees is important

This Nootka Cypress is doomed.

Planting trees in new development sites

I've rarely heard anyone dispute the fact that trees are good. Yet when it comes to new development sites often the installation of trees and green space is only an afterthought. With increased population density comes decreased available land for trees. Planning for the installation of new trees is another aspect of tree care that will require better planning more attention in the future. 

The Nootka Cypress

Here we have a species of tree that is said to have potential to grow up to 40 meters tall. It possesses proud branches with foliage that swoops gracefully, giving a distinct Pacific Northwest Coast feel. It has become a widely used species in gardens, parks and estates due to its unique characteristics. 

The young tree shown in the image above will most certainly die long before reaching maturity. I would suggest it is unlikely that it would survive a single year. Trees need space to grow.

Conditions required for optimal tree growth

Of course trees need more than just space. Every species has unique needs. The needs are generally a reflection of its climatic, hydrological and geographic origins. Here is a list of the basic requirements for fostering tree health.

• Sunlight
• Water
• Air
• Nutrients
• Support

If any of the basic requirements are not present a tree will not survive. With the exception of sunlight all of these come from the soil. Understanding the importance of soil is the key.  To grow trees we must have ample, living, breathing, nutrient rich soil.