Book: How & Why Chapter: How to plant trees Section: Demonstrate work techniques Metadata: Details Buy this book

Demonstrate all new work techniques as you come to them. This will save mistakes and avoid accidents. The first tree should be planted so everyone knows what they should be doing.

Plan the delivery of materials to minimise distances carried. Provide aids e.g. wheelbarrow to avoid manual handling.

Demonstrate the correct lifting technique (bending the knee and keeping the back straight so that the leg muscles are used and the back is not strained).

Refer to the BTCV Basic Safety leaflet.

Organisation of team

Divide the team into pairs, teaming beginners with more experienced people.

The most efficient way to work is to form a production line, each team doing a specific job, e.g. digging holes, hammering in the stakes, planting the trees and attaching the shelters/guards. Swap pairs around at tea or lunch breaks.

When planting a mixture, plant clumps of each species to minimise the possibility of one species out-competing another, unless otherwise indicated by the site plan.

Keep the fine fibrous roots moist and out of the wind at all times.

Trim any damaged roots or shoots.

While trees are on site they should be heeled in or covered in wet sacking and moistened regularly. Alternatively, use tree bags with a black inner and white outer.

Plant trees upright and to the same depth as they were previously growing - use the root collar or soil mark on the stem.

Tread the soil firm after planting and check the tree to ensure it is firm and upright.

The leader should check, assist and encourage people and ensure work standards are maintained.

For more information:

Consult your local BTCV office.

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