LANDSCAPING SERVICES
KEY CONSIDERATIONS
FOR PLANTING TREES IN LANDSCAPED AREAS
The installation of living trees throughout urban areas can enhance environmental quality in a variety of ways . This includes the absorption of noise and pollution , in addition to the production of oxygen and the creation of privacy and land stabilisation . However , the planting of trees in landscaped or paved exterior public spaces can present a number of challenges that must be considered at the very initial design stages .
Chris George , Business Development Manager at Howe Green , discusses the key factors that should be addressed when specifying tree pits and tree grilles for landscaping developments to provide a safe and efficient installation , without compromising on the overall visual effect .
Whilst planting trees in urban areas provide many benefits , any trees or saplings must be initially planted into a safe and secure setting to ensure their long term growth and subsequent environmental advantages . Adequate root management , regular access to water and the maintenance of soil condition are all essential elements that must be considered when incorporating trees into hard landscaped areas .
How can specifiers ensure they ’ re planted in a safe and secure way ? External tree pits and tree grilles are particularly popular with landscaping professionals , as they effectively provide easy access to tree root balls , whilst also providing discreet access to electrics , valves , pumps and water features .
Material matters When choosing a tree grille or tree pit , ensuring the right materials have been used throughout the product ’ s construction is critical for preserving the tree ’ s life and ensuring a longlasting and durable installation .
Specifiers should consider solutions manufactured from stainless steel , galvanised steel or aluminium , as they provide long-term rust and corrosion resistance to ensure the highest levels of performance , whilst also accommodating a wide variety of hard floor finishes .
The addition of a top edge seal will also prevent dirt , grout or grinding waste ingress to achieve increased longevity and resilience . This also eliminates the requirement for slither cuts of stone , which often leads to recurrent and costly breakages .
Linear drainage is another important factor to consider when installing tree pits and grilles in a landscaped area . Ensuring that any excess water can be drained from the tree ball root encourages growth and prevents overflow onto the surrounding area , which could pose slip hazards .
To provide a flush fit and eliminate any possibility of a trip hazard , Howe Green offers a wide range of linear drainage finishes , including aluminium , stainless steel , brass , and Colouredge PVC .
Aesthetics vs performance Howe Green offers a variety of stainless steel , galvanised steel and aluminium tree pit covers and tree grilles that can withstand varying levels of footfall or traffic , making them an easy choice for a wide variety of hard landscaping projects .
Custom made specifications will best meet the specific requirements of each individual project , rather than a standard ‘ off the shelf ’ offering . A bespoke specification will also ensure that the type of metal specified within the hard landscaping , are seamlessly integrated into the tree grilles , providing the highest quality finish available .
With over 30 years ’ experience in the design and manufacture of high performance access solutions , Howe Green ’ s team of in-house design and engineering experts offer a wide range of custom and standard tree pits and tree grilles that can be tailored to meet the exact specification of every project .
For further information on Howe Green ’ s floor access solutions , visit www . howegreen . com or call 01920 463230
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