New Trees Boost Activity in Parks

The planting of 14 new extra heavy standard trees in King George V Playing Fields at Sutton Manor in St Helens has seen visitor numbers increase.The trees Common Limes have been chosen because they will grow to a large size offering shade and colour across the park.

The installation of the trees alongside children's play equipment and a teen shelter has boosted numbers considerably.By linking green spaces through green route ways such as Sutton Manor with its iconic Dream Sculpture and Brickfields with its views across the brickworks to the soiled up and soon to be greened landfill site this extends the possibility of walking and cycling across the Bold Parish area for residents of Four Acre, Sutton and further afield in St Helens and Merseyside.

Ben Greenaway Green Streets Coordinator for The Mersey Forest who organised the planting said

'by planting large leaved large stature trees we can contribute to making the long walk across the park seem like a short distance by providing a greater sense of scale to the wide open landscape.As well as providing much needed colour to the park the trees will cool the air on hot days and provide welcome shade for older residents who can see long distances without a break a daunting prospect'.

Large leaved trees are best when helping us adapt to climate change by cooling and shading.Research at Manchester University has recently shown that trees planted in grassed areas have a dramatic cooling effect on their surrounding but even better news is that trees in paved areas can cool by up to 5 degrees celcius making our living environment more relaxing on hot days.

Its Time To Start Watering Your Trees

Four Acres residents

Thank you for requesting a tree outside or near your property. We both want your tree to grow strong and be healthy so you can enjoy the foliage and flowers in years to come. We are very responsive to your concerns, so please call if any changes occur to your tree.

Frequently asked Questions:

Q- Leaves are falling off the tree and some of them are brown. What do I do?

A- When trees are lacking water the leaves with first begin to curl and then fall off. This is a sign of not enough water.

Q- Leaves are turning yellow and falling off the tree. What do I do?

A- This is a case of too much water. This is the most damaging of all sometimes irreversible. Stop watering immediately and call The Mersey Forest.

Q- What can I do to help my tree?

A- Watering the tree during the hotter days will help it establish more quickly.

Q- What is the best way to water my trees?

A- The best way is the use a 4 litre milk bottle to carry water and a 2L pop bottle cut off 3 inches from the bottom.(you can use scissors - ask an adult) Sink a small hole around 6 inches deep into the tree pit ( house side to edge of pit) and push the pop bottle into it. Pour water into the wider open end of the bottle. It will let water out slowly and you can monitor how much water the tree is receiving. The recommended amount of water during each watering is 20 gallons however our contractor will turn up to deliver these amounts on an occasional basis so for you to help smaller amount of 2/4 L is adequate once a week or so.(Remember to back fill the hole afterwards) DO NOT STAND ON THE ROADSIDE.

Q- Can I plant up around my street tree?

A- Yes bedding plants, climbing plants like Morning Glory work well. No large shrubs.

Q- Can I use my water butt to water the trees?

A- Yes, this is ideal for both your garden and for your street tree

Q. How often do I water my trees?

A- Remember to always look at the trees leaves before you water. This is the best way to know if you are over or under watering your trees. Over watering is the most damaging to your tree.

Please remember to water your trees only when they are in leaf or flower! Avoid windy days and watering in full sun. Early mornings or evenings are best.

Thank you. Should you have any questions please feel free to call The Mersey Forest on 01925 816 217or e mail ben@merseyforest.org.uk .We can pass on small maintenance issues to the contractor or if you need to report damage contact St Helens Council Tree Officers through 01744 676789.