Winter is the best season to plant trees and hedgerows, or even an orchard.
Planting young trees in cool and damp soils helps them to establish their essential fine root systems before the warmth and longer daylight hours of spring encourages the growth of leaf buds.
Trees and hedgerows can transform gardens and community spaces into wildlife-rich havens that provide shade and seasonal beauty. They can even cool the air temperature during periods of hot weather.
Fruit trees such as apple, pear, quince and plum provide a valuable source of nectar for pollinating insects in the spring and if planted within community spaces, prove to be not only a free and healthy food source, but a great meeting place.
Well placed trees and hedgerows can:
- Reduce run-off and flood risk by increasing water absorption into the soil
- Connect habitats by acting as stepping stones and corridors for wildlife
- Provide food and shelter for birds, bats and other small mammals
Our Right Tree, Right Place guidance provides plenty of useful information on suitable locations, species and aftercare and will ensure your efforts help to create a greener and healthier Cranborne Chase.
We recommend you always choose a diverse range of native species and plan for aftercare before planting.