Choosing the right tree for the site

At the site level it is important to choose the right tree and plant species for the location.

Stephen McLaren

Factors to consider include:

• the historic and landscape context
• native species to promote biodiversity
• fruit and nut trees to promote local food
• trees that demand less water where shrink-swell soils may be an issue
• drought-tolerant species if irrigation cannot be sustainably supplied
• shade-casting species.

Guidance is available from the Tree Council on tree planting and practice. Meanwhile the Greater London Authority and the Forestry Commission have developed a web-based database to help planners, landscape designers, developers and other professionals decide on suitable tree species for London’s changing climate.

Priority: integrate green infrastructure into urban areas
Tags: green infrastructure, buildings and spaces