Street Trees for Under Powerlines

From our perspective, there are three key points to consider with tree selection. All are related but each needs to be addressed separately to assess the bigger picture.

Buy quality. You get what you pay for and accredited nurseries charge more for their trees because of the inputs and processes they adopt. These nurseries are audited to ensure compliance to high-quality growing systems which from your point of view is an investment in the tree itself. 

The benefits of great processes are trees with good root systems giving great anchorage when planted so they are less likely to fail and fall within the vicinity of power lines. Trees with a well attached branch structure will also be less likely to lose or drop branches in extreme weather conditions. And quality trees require less maintenance post-planting.

Formative Pruning is essential. This is particularly important with younger trees to ensure a good mature form.  Critical decisions that set the tree up for life are made early, including the decision to terminate should form not be good enough or systems not supportive enough for long term growth. Get to know the production nursery and be assured that these practices are in place before you buy.

Be aware of the work required with purchasing smaller trees over advanced specimens. Smaller stock will need seasonal pruning to ensure longevity - at least two formative pruning seasons for the smaller stock. If the quality and frequency of post-planting maintenance in the landscape is an issue, the advanced specimens greater than 50 litres will be more cost effective in the long run due to less work being required once established, the formative pruning has already been done for you.

Forget the notion that anyone with secateurs can maintain trees. It is about good pruning practices that train the tree to grow in the right way. This is highly skilled work and needs to be done properly with well trained and qualified staff, not the lowest priced contractor. Train your people and /or bring them into the nursery environment for a first-hand demonstration.

Plant selection is vital. There has been a huge amount of work done over the years in selecting smaller trees for planting in urban environments and these can be utilised under power lines. There are trees that remain under 6 metres that can be easily pruned to accommodate wires.  Growing trees true to type is essential if planting in restricted growth zones.

For more information on any of these trees or others you are considering, please contact the sales team on 03 9796 8308 or by email sales@specialitytrees.com.au.

Here are some suggestions that we know will perform well for this purpose.

And a  VIDEO of 40cm/50cm stock ready to plant now!