Get planting – we need our trees
We are all being encouraged to plant trees and shrubs.
Whether you are a large landowner or have a small garden, there is always a tree or shrub suitable for you – but you have to choose the right variety for the right soil, the right size for the plot or pot, and don’t forget the right height when it is full-grown. We all remember the Leylandii hedges that grew and grew and caused so many problems between garden neighbours.
Britain owes many of its long-established forests and woodlands to the kings and queens and estate owners who planted them to provide a habitat for country pursuits, but also to provide a source of timber for our building and ship-building industries, and the management of them provides wood for household matters.
Sadly, there are many acres of neglected woodland nowadays. However, they still provide shelter and a food source for a wide variety of insects and wildlife. And those woodlands that are cut down need to be replaced.
It takes many years to re-establish a well-grown woodland that is fit for purpose, but from the outset it can provide a crucial habitat and contribute towards offsetting the nation’s carbon footprint. So, get planting!
Sarah Norton is a retired rural dweller living near Shrewsbury
