Book: Practical Conservation Practical Conservation
Chapter: Trees and Woodlands
Section: Getting the right tree in the right place
Metadata: Details Buy this book

The first consideration is how big the tree will grow. A large tree in a confined space amongst buildings will cast a lot of shade, may damage foundations with its roots and can eventually pose a risk to the building if it falls. Smaller trees suitable for a confined space include Rowan, Whitebeam, Crab Apple, Bird Cherry, or Hazel. Examples of larger trees only suitable where there is a lot of space include Ash, Oak, Elm, and Scot's Pine.

An important consideration is any underground or overhead services which the trees might disturb. Only tree species which are relatively small at maturity should be planted under overhead cables, and even these may need pruning in later years.

The site plans of your school may give information on underground services. If there are no records of this, the local authority, telephone, water and power companies can advise on what may be there.

Trees planted directly over sewer pipes can eventually damage the pipes' joints and obstruct them. Willow and Poplar species are a particular risk to pipes.


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