Appendix A - Tree Planting Policy
Perth and Kinross Council · 18 February 2026
Back to Climate Change and Sustainability Committee — 18 February 2026 and its agenda
Text extracted from the council's PDF. Layout and reading order may differ from the original.
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Tree Planting Policy Community Greenspace Adopted Feb 2026 (tbc)
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Contents ▪ Tree Management Strategy 3 ▪ 1.0 Introduction 4 ▪ 2.0 Native and Non-Native Species 6 ▪ 3.0 Choosing the Right Place 8 ▪ 3.1 Recreation Parks 9 ▪ 3.2 Countryside Sites 10 ▪ 3.3 Cemeteries 11 ▪ 3.4 Schools 12 ▪ 3.5 Grow Wild Areas 13 ▪ 3.6 Orchards and Food Growing 14 ▪ 3.7 Green Corridors 15 ▪ 3.8 Residential Areas 16 ▪ 3.9 Streets and Urban Planting 17 ▪ 3.10 Near Buildings & Gardens 18 ▪ 4.0 Planting, Establishment & Maintenance 20 ▪ 4.1 Planting Stock 21 ▪ 4.2 Planting methods 22 ▪ 4.3 Establishment & maintenance 23 ▪ 4.4 Planting Protections Flowchart 25 ▪ 5.0 Memorial Trees 26 ▪ 6.0 Recording Data 27 ▪ 7.0 Volunteering Opportunities 28 ▪ 8.0 Useful links and advice for Council departments 29 ▪ Appendices ▪ Appendix 1 – List of native species to Scotland 30 ▪ Appendix 2 – Sites with management plans 31 ▪ Appendix 3 – BSI standards publications 32 2
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The Tree Planting Policy (TPP) forms part of the Council’s Tree Management Strategy (TMS), which covers the management of trees on all Council owned or managed land. The TMS also contains the Tree Management Policy (TMP) which describes the Council’s approach to existing trees, and the Ash Dieback & Roadside Trees Strategy (ADS) which outlines the Council’s response to Ash Dieback. The TMS does not provide advice for trees not managed or maintained by the Council, within Conservation Areas, Tree Preservation Orders or wider forestry and woodland management, which is covered by the PKC Forest and Woodland Strategy. The TMS is part of the Council’s Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan and supports delivery of the Perth and Kinross Forest Plan and site-specific management plans. 3 Tree Management Strategy Ash Dieback Roadside Trees Strategy Ash Dieback & Roadside Trees Strategy Tree Planting Policy Tree Management Policy Tree Management Policy Tree Management Strategy
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1.0 Introduction This Policy sets Council-wide standards and procedures for tree planting on all Council-owned Land and is aimed at all Council staff or volunteers planting trees on Council land. A consistent and well- planned approach enables efficient use of available resources to achieve the Council’s aims to improve Biodiversity through increased canopy cover, carbon sequestration and ecological improvements as well as improving public health and wellbeing and the amenity value of our greenspaces. To ensure that the right trees are planted in the right place, this policy provides guidance on appropriate planting stock, technique, protection & maintenance for different locations. Perth and Kinross is proud to be known as Big Tree Country with historic and famous trees throughout the area boasting many champion & specimen trees as well as over 200,000 acres of woodland. Individual trees and woodlands contribute significantly to the enviable character and quality of the countryside and settlements of the area, attracting visitors and investment to Perth & Kinross. Trees have a recognised benefit to public health and wellbeing, offering many benefits that promote mental and physical health and improve quality of life. Time spent in greenspaces and wooded areas has been linked to improved health, reduced stress and trees create a barrier to the noise and sights of built-up environments. These benefits make appropriately placed trees an important element our urban and rural open spaces. Trees are essential in providing habitats for wildlife and maintaining biodiversity, which is under significant threat due to factors such as climate change, development and other human impacts. Worldwide, biodiversity is declining faster globally than at any other time in recorded human history. With climate change and the need to reduce CO2 as the climate warms, trees are playing a vital role in air quality, flood mitigation, erosion control, shade provision and overall health and wellbeing. Trees have an important role to play in sequestering carbon and providing habitat for wildlife, with different species creating ‘niches’ that may be relied on for both fauna and other flora. Increases in extreme weather events and damage to trees from storms as well as diseases such as Ash dieback, have resulted in significant and continued tree loss. Increased tree planting is needed to replace and restore areas that have suffered losses as well as improve canopy cover. Between 2022 and 2025 the Council planted over 6300 trees. 4 To ensure a sustainable future for trees and people Policy vision – Right Tree, Right Place
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Introduction cont. Public greenspaces require careful species selection to be fit for the purpose and character of the site they are being used for. Correct species selection is dependent on location, soil type, exposure and biodiversity requirements of the site. Other factors like flood risk, erosion and water safety management are equally as important when looking a species suitability. Many trees grow to an impressive extent and can live for over 100 years. Small trees such as Blackthorn and Crab apple can typically grow up to 10m in height with large trees like Oaks and Ash exceeding 40m. Any new tree planting must be resilient and sustainable in the long term. This policy aims to ensure that the right trees are planted in the right place to provide long-term benefits to communities and our local environment, and to avoid problems arising from trees being planted in unsuitable locations. The Perth & Kinross Forest Plan 2015-2035 is an important guiding document which gives site-specific tree management recommendations, including species composition, for 38 sites that are either predominantly woodlands, or contain large, forested areas. Some sites that the Council manage have site management plans (appendix 2) with specific advice on tree planting and desired species compositions. Recommendations for sites not covered by the Forest Plan or specific site management plans are provided within this Policy. Not every tree is suited to every location. When planting an area, many choices need to be made including whether native or non-native trees will be planted, which specific species will be suitable, what size of tree is desired and what sort of impacts will the different trees have. Planting of all new trees on Council maintained sites must be agreed in advance with or undertaken by the Council’s Community Greenspace Service. The Council have their own plant nursery at Westbank in Perth where a wide variety of native trees and shrubs are grown from locally sourced seeds, saplings and cuttings. This valuable resource gives the Council the ability to grow stock at substantially reduced costs, reduces the carbon footprint from transporting trees and limits the risk of introducing new diseases into the local environment. 5
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2.0 Native and Non-Native Species 6 Where appropriate for the site, the Council prioritises the use of native tree species Policy – native species Native species are beneficial for restoring natural habitats and enhancing wildlife & biodiversity. For local planting, native species are generally preferred as they are well-adapted to the local environment, have co-evolved with and support local wildlife and help to preserve our natural heritage. Certain native species will provide a beneficial niche for other native wildlife and may be vital to their survival. Less maintenance is often required for native species, with inherent resilience to certain diseases and a tolerance for the local environmental conditions. Native tree stock is a more cost-effective approach, with native trees being more readily available in local tree nurseries including Westbank in Perth (see 4.1 Planting Stock). Planting projects using external funding may have specific restrictions or requirements for species composition, such as a requirement for native species to be used. Appropriate species must be planned for and considered before funding applications are submitted. A variety of species on any given site is useful to improve ecological resilience and, as the climate changes, the range of species may need to be extended to improve ecological adaption. Some native species may be less suited to new environmental conditions arising from climate change. Non-native trees may be more suitable in such circumstances to add additional resilience to warmer and wetter climates or to fill gaps where disease and pests have decimated native trees.
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7 Non-native species may be a preferred option in certain park settings to maintain the character of a site, or for a specific function, such as arboretums, particular visual impact or as part of a conservation project. Non-native trees are acceptable in, and can enhance, sites such as recreational parks, however, they are generally unsuitable for planting in woodlands, countryside sites or in SSSI sites. While both native and non-native species can be suitable for planting, the specific tree species is of particular importance. Invasive non-native trees must be avoided on all sites. These include Ailanthus, Cherry Laurel, False acacia, Leyland cypress and various non-native Poplars. Most non-native species of tree or shrub cannot be planted into the wild (e.g. into countryside sites) under the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (WANE). Planting of Ash and European larch should not take place due to the ongoing disease issues of Ash Dieback and Phytophthora ramorum. A list of suitable native tree species can be found in appendix 1. Native and Non-Native Species cont. Non-native trees may be planted to maintain the character and function of a particular site or location Policy – non-native species
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3.0 Choosing the Right Place 8 The Council manage a diverse range of sites with unique characteristics, including countryside sites, recreation parks, cemeteries, green corridors and housing areas. Each type of site requires different considerations when planting trees; therefore, the guidance has been tailored for each site category. Some larger sites may fall into two or more categories (e.g. MacRosty Park in Crieff contains a woodland area, a recreation park and grow wild areas). The best practice will be dependent on which area within the site is being considered for planting. For replacement tree planting where trees cannot be planted in the same location, planting should be considered within suitable nearby sites. In this section: 3.1 Recreation Parks greenspaces set out for recreation & play 3.2 Countryside & Woodland Sites greenspaces in rural and forested environments 3.3 Cemeteries churchyards and cemeteries 3.4 School Grounds play areas and open space in school grounds 3.5 Grow Wild Areas open spaces designated as ‘Grow Wild’ areas 3.6 Orchards and Food Growing fruit trees in public open spaces and orchards 3.7 Green Corridors narrow connective greenspaces and routes between areas 3.8 Residential Areas open space within residential developments 3.9 Street & Urban Planting urban and built-up environments 3.10 Next to buildings trees close to buildings, gardens and utilities
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3.1 Recreation Parks Recreation parks provide spaces for the use and enjoyment of people for active recreation including sports, particularly in urban areas. Formal and informal active recreation improves physical and mental health and wellbeing and should be enhanced by but not dominated by trees. Where parks have specific management or masterplans (see appendix 3), trees will be planted following the guidelines within those plans. If there are no overall management or masterplans, the character and function of the park will be considered in terms of tree location, type and ultimate size. Some parks may already have sufficient or excessive tree cover for their function and only replacements for trees removed should be considered. The use of planting plans ensures the character and spaces created in parks are not compromised by trees being planted in the wrong locations and will also ensure that appropriate succession planting for older trees is properly planned and implemented. Trees should not be planted where they overhang, cast shade or drop debris on intensively used grass areas, specialist recreational or sports surfaces or buildings. The open nature of parks and key views must not be reduced or compromised by poorly considered tree planting. Trees provide important visual features or backdrops but the temptation of filling any open area with trees without proper consideration must be avoided. 9 Trees will be planted where the key functions of the park will not be impacted or compromised Policy – planting in public parks
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3.2 Countryside and Woodlands Sites Countryside and woodland sites are often more natural settings with more vegetation than other open spaces, where walking and other outdoor pursuits are the primary recreation function. Due to the more natural setting of these sites, biodiversity and ecosystems health are a greater focus when managing these sites. The function and character of the sites should not be compromised by inappropriate tree planting that would block key views or reduce public enjoyment. Tree planting in countryside and woodland sites should aim to enhance the recreational experience whilst improving biodiversity and addressing any tree losses. Countryside sites should only be planted with native species, unless non-natives are advocated in a specific site management or master plan. Controlled self-seeding allows a natural form of regeneration for trees lost through disease, storms or damage. Varied native species should be selected to ensure resilience against single species diseases. The Forest Plan and any individual existing site management plans (see appendix 2) should always be consulted prior to undertaking work and implemented as appropriate. Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) have additional protections and planting restrictions. Any specific designations must be checked along with any relevant stakeholder consultation e.g. NatureScot for SSSIs. 10 The Council will prioritise the planting native trees in countryside and woodland sites to enhance biodiversity and address tree loss Policy – countryside and woodland sites
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3.3 Tree Planting in Cemeteries Trees make a valuable contribution to the amenity and setting of cemeteries and enhance the sense of tranquillity and peaceful reflection for those visiting them in addition to biodiversity and amenity benefits. Tree roots can however cause practical difficulties in excavating lairs, destabilising headstones and larger memorials or restricting access. Care is needed in identifying suitable locations for new tree planting in existing cemeteries and must be through full discussion and agreement with the Bereavement Services team and consultation with Friends of Cemeteries. In general, trees will only be planted in existing cemeteries as replacements. Planting within new cemeteries or cemetery extensions should be incorporated into the design of the site, whilst maintaining the primary function for burials. Trees can be planted to provide distinct avenues in rows and as individual ‘specimen’ trees as focal points. Root barriers should be considered to protect lairs if there is any doubt about potential root encroachment. Suggested species: evergreens such as Yew, Scots Pine, Korean fir due to non-invasive roots, narrow foliage and less leaf-litter. Flowering ornamentals also suitable for new cemeteries and extensions 11 Trees will be planted in areas which do not reduce capacity, create difficulties for burials, or impact the sensitive nature of the site Policy – cemetery planting
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3.4 School Grounds Planting in schools offers a valuable opportunity to involve children in planting, monitoring and maintaining the trees, providing engaging educational exercises. Trees in schools are the responsibility of the school and Property Services and should be in full agreement to any new tree planting. Specialist advice can be provided to schools where requested, to ensure appropriate trees are chosen, planted and maintained following good practice. Tree planting should be sited in such a way as to ensure the remaining grounds can function effectively and be efficiently maintained. Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust may also be able to provide support through the ‘Tree For Every Child’ project to encourage more planting within school grounds with pupil involvement. Planting trees provides an excellent learning experience as well as enhancing the school environment and encourages an early interest in trees and green spaces. The New Tree Planting Guidance for Schools gives advice for successful establishment and maintenance of trees on school grounds. 12 Tree planting is encouraged and supported on school grounds following the same principles set out for other open spaces Policy – planting in schools ©PKCT
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3.5 Grow Wild Areas ‘Grow Wild’ Areas present a valuable opportunity to bring additional interest to the area, enhance biodiversity, wildlife habitats and allow space for trees to grow and thrive. Tree planting will be considered as part of the development of new and existing permanent Grow Wild areas e.g. suitable park margins and steep ground. To enhance biodiversity, trees should be native and encourage dependent species of plants and animals. Native trees with attractive features (e.g. colourful blossom) can improve the visual impact of Grow Wild areas. Trees should be varied in species and age to strengthen ecological resilience, be low maintenance, and must be able to survive in a grassland environment. Species must be appropriate for space available and type of site and if space is limited, small and native trees such as Rowan, Hawthorn, Field maple and Crab apple can be used. These areas are also ideal for wildlife corridors, and the planting of native blossoms will encourage biodiversity. Fruit, ornamental or memorial trees can also be planted in areas permanently designated as Grow Wild. Not all Grow Wild sites are appropriate for additional tree planting, with the suitability being dependant on other site characteristics such as distance to buildings or where access is required for grounds maintenance. Please visit the Council website to find out more about ‘Grow Wild’ 13 Trees will be planted within selected Grow Wild areas to enhance biodiversity and wildlife habitat Policy – tree planting & Grow Wild
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3.6 Orchards & Food Growing Many communities have a history of fruit growing and orchards throughout Perth and Kinross. Orchards are shared resources, often managed by local residents. Besides food production, they can contribute to improving and creating habitats and build resilience against urbanisation and climate change impacts. Orchards are normally identified as areas where there is a minimum of 5 fruit trees. Soft fruits within hedgerows adds to diversity, feeding people and wildlife. They maybe located within parks, school grounds or woodland areas where there is sufficient space. Individual fruit trees can be incorporated into ‘Grow Wild’ sites or as part of other park development projects to further enhance amenity and biodiversity value. Fruit trees will not be planted where dropped fruit will fall on hard surfaces or amenity areas such as shrub or herbaceous borders. They will not be planted where insects are likely to cause a nuisance to other park uses such as picnic areas. The Food Growing Strategy encourages people to grow food locally including on Council owned and managed land. The Council, through their Community Food Growing Officer, supports planting and management of fruit trees or small orchards in suitable locations where community groups have shown interest and are able to maintain them. 14 The Council will support community groups in the planting of fruit trees or orchards where there is suitable space and public interest Policy – planting fruit trees & orchards
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3.7 Green Corridors Green corridors are usually relatively narrow strips of greenspace associated with off road active travel routes for people in urban and rural areas. They can also provide important routes and habitats for wildlife to move through and between areas avoiding barriers and hard surfaces. Tree planting should enhance pathways without causing obstruction or damage to the surfaces from roots, branches or excessive debris. Planting should maximise wildlife interaction and biodiversity whilst ensuring sufficient access for maintenance of any infrastructure. Care must be taken to ensure the trees are appropriate for the space available to avoid future problems for neighbouring properties or land uses. They should also ensure that the corridor remains safe and welcoming for users, avoid creating dark or concealed areas or blocking lighting. Native trees such as Wild Cherry, Whitebeam, Rowan, Hawthorn, Crab Apple and other Malus and Prunus species all add blossom and natural colour. Dense planting of trees or shrubs may be used along the edge of water courses or at the edge of ponds to dissuade entry to the water and encourage biodiversity. 15 Trees will be planted in ‘Green Corridors’ where they enhance their amenity value and improve wildlife connectivity Policy – planting in green corridors
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3.8 Council Land within Residential Areas Large areas of Council managed land in Perth and Kinross lie within residential areas. Trees within existing housing estates can form a core part of the identity of an area, adding character, wildlife benefit and interest to a neighbourhood. Additional benefits often include a reduction in surface water flooding and can act as wind or noise buffers. They may also act as a corridor for wildlife where greenspaces have otherwise been fragmented through development. Planting of open areas is therefore encouraged in otherwise unutilised areas of greenspace within housing areas but must follow the principles described throughout this policy. Trees should be planted in such a way as to avoid obstruction of sight lines or interference with any existing recreational use of the site. For housing areas in particular, the guidance within 3.10 Trees Next to Buildings, Gardens and Utilities section must be followed. For any new planting likely to be contentious, the Council will consult with the neighbours and potential site users. Guidance is available to developers of new sites in the Open Space Provision for New Developments Supplementary Guidance. 16 Trees will only be planted within housing areas where there is sufficient space to avoid long term adverse impacts on buildings, residents and infrastructure Policy – planting in existing residential areas
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3.9 Street and Urban Planting Street & urban trees offer amenity value, shade and carbon sequestration in areas that may otherwise have limited or no greenspace. A wider variety of species can be used, both native and non-native, for street planting to provide visual interest. Additional care is required when choosing the correct species for an urban environment to ensure that nuisance issues such as aphid drop, bird droppings and leaf and fruit litter do not create additional maintenance burdens, and that roots will not damage pavements or road surfaces. Where space is limited, fastigiate (where branches are more or less parallel with the main stem) varieties of native trees (see appendix 1) are an ideal choice for urban environments and are especially suitable for avenues and around parking areas. Street trees face more challenging environmental factors, such as pollution and increased human interaction leading to increased levels of stress, so greater preservation and aftercare features may be required (see 4.3 Establishment and Maintenance), such as watering access and tree guards. Trees may be planted in containers in urban environments to prevent root compaction and stem damage from heavy footfall. Tree species intolerant to higher salt exposure from street gritting or higher pollution levels may not be suitable for all street planting. Salt tolerant natives are indicated in appendix 1. Higher levels of maintenance and regular pruning are required to maintain public access and clearance for roads, streetlighting and CCTV (table 2). Resources for additional maintenance must be confirmed prior to planting. 17 Trees planted in streets will be done as part of an approved masterplan with details agreed prior to implementation and adoption Policy – Street & urban trees Street feature Minimum clearance Pavements and public access routes 2.4m height Highways and public roads 5.3m height Cycle paths and bridleways 3.0m height Table 2. minimum clearances required for access
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3.10 Trees next to Buildings, Gardens and Utilities Correct planting distances and spacing are essential for new trees to avoid ‘nuisance’ issues of blocked light, overshading, damage to guttering and facias or debris drop. While trees are essential to biodiversity and public wellbeing, consideration of potential negative impacts on neighbouring properties must always be considered to prevent these nuisance issues and possible third-party damage to trees. These guidelines apply to planting within all areas except for urban & street tree planting which may be planted be closer to buildings (see 3.9 Streets and Urban Planting). The mature height and canopy spread of any trees being planted, rather than the height at planting, must be considered before planting in the vicinity of buildings, gardens or infrastructure. Smaller trees or shrubs may help provide a visual buffer and wildlife value but should follow the same principle. These guidelines should not prevent the planting of trees near neighbouring properties but emphasise the importance of correct species choice. 18 The Council will only plant trees where they will not impact buildings, overhang gardens or interfere with utilities infrastructure Policy – Trees next to buildings Trees should be planted at least their anticipated mature height away from buildings Trees should be planted at least half their anticipated mature height away from boundaries Trees with limited root intrusion and slow growth should be used where possible (appendix 1) Tree planting should not cause excessive shading of neighbouring gardens or properties Trees planted to the south-west of any building where shading of the building or garden from the evening sun is likely to be a nuisance will need to be planted further from the boundary if this will otherwise result in excessive shading Planted trees must not impact on solar panels of neighbouring properties Consider shorter or fastigiate tree species when planting close to buildings Trees may need to be planted further away than these guidelines in circumstances where nuisance issues would otherwise be unavoidable Any trees planted near buildings will comply with the British Standard BS5837:2012 (appendix 3).
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Trees next to Buildings, Gardens and Utilities cont. Service checks must be carried out before any planting is to take place for the presence of both underground utilities (drainage pipes, electrical and fibre cables and gas supplies) and overhead utilities (high and low voltage cabling and telephone lines). Subsoil utilities are often only 350-450mm deep and may be susceptible to damage from roots, while the canopy of the tree can cause interference or damage to overhead utilities. Sufficient clearance should be given to allow for maintenance of any of these utilities. 19
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4.0 Planting, establishment & maintenance 20 In this section: 4.1 Planting Stock what size of tree can be planted and where does the Council get their trees from 4.2 Planting Methods how and when are trees best planted 4.3 Establishment & Maintenance what maintenance is done to ensure the trees remain healthy 3.4 Planting Protections Flowchart what protections are put in place to prevent damage
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4.1 Planting Stock The Council grows a wide selection of native trees at Westbank Nursery, Perth. This stock of trees will be used for all planting on Council land wherever possible. Trees may be not always be readily available from Westbank when specific sizes or species are required and will be sourced externally from approved suppliers. All stock will meet BS 3936- 1 Nursery Stock Specification (appendix 3). Correctly specified trees are more likely to establish quickly and have better survival rates. Planting stock is provided in a variety of forms ranging in size from bare rooted whips, pods and potted, to heavy standards. Most trees will be planted as bare rooted transplants or ‘whips’ during the correct planting seasonal range, normally November to March. Younger trees planted in bare root form will generally have a higher chance of survival, if planted correctly with proper protections, as the whip will more easily adapt to its environment relative to a container grown tree. However, a range of age and sizes will be planted, with older trees being required for certain areas or projects (Table 3). 21 All planting will be sourced from in-house stock at Westbank where possible. Other trees will be sourced from approved suppliers Policy - planting stock Tree size When to use Whip - between 2 to 4 years old, unbranched, normally bare rooted When a large number of trees or dense planting is required e.g. planting of large area or woodland expansion Potted – A container grown tree, often non-native For container growing in urban raised tree beds Standard – normally standing at a height of approximately 6ft As a landscaping feature in planned groups or linear focus areas and avenues Heavy Standard - showing branch growth and the beginnings of a full crown. Usually 7-9ft in height As individual plantings in either urban or park environment. Suitable to use for memorial tree planting Extra Heavy Standards/Semi Matures – over 9ft in height with significant branch and crown development As a distinctive feature tree, especially within a heavy footfall environment or as an exceptional memorial tree Table 3. When to use different size trees
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4.2 Planting methods The specific planting method will vary depending on site conditions, tree species and stock size. Planting is best carried out between October and March to give the best survivability for any newly planted tree. All stock, regardless of size, should be inspected for signs of disease or damage before planting. Whips will be planted in slots or notches using a spade to make a narrow cut in the soil, and protection will depend on site location (see table on page 24 for protection specifications). If whips are planted in a fenced, herbivore proof protected area, then normally they will require no further protection, although this is only recommended for large-scale planting. Standard trees will be planted in square or rectangular pits, pricked on all sides and relevant staking and guards put in place. No feed should be included in any tree planting, as this can promote shallow root growth and the salinity will damage delicate root systems although leaf mould may be included in the planting of standards. To reduce competition from weeds and promote tree growth, mulch should be used around the planting area to a depth of 3-4cm not in contact with the plant stem itself. Mulch mats are ideal for this purpose. Any minor formative pruning of the branches or roots should be carried out at the planting stage. Irrigation piping, planting guys and more elaborate planting protection may be used in the case of specimen trees. Trees in street environments may also be planted in containers and adequate drainage through gravel layers and trough perforations must be considered. More detail on pit sizes and protection guidance is given in the table on page 25. 22 Planting will be done during the correct season, using the right stock type and species and methods to promote survivability Policy – planting
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4.3 Establishment and Maintenance The successful establishment of newly planted trees is largely dependent on following good planting and maintenance practices within the first 3 years. Good practice includes weed management, herbivore control, staking and watering during dry periods (see chart on page 24). Trees will be planted in accordance with BS8545 (appendix 3). Trees being staked and tied must be done using adjustable ties. Incorrect use of tree ties, stakes or tree guards will reduce survivability of trees. Regular monitoring and removal of tree protections, once established, will improve the success of newly planted trees. Tree ties and stakes must be secure but loose enough to allow growth. Formative pruning after planting will ease future maintenance and help prevent tree intrusion 23 Trees on Council land will be planted following best practice and relevant British Standard, BS8545 Policy – establishment Trees will be maintained with weed and herbivore control and regularly monitored until well established Policy – maintenance Machine mowers and strimmers must not be used close to the base of trees to avoid stem damage and invigoration of grass, which will compete with plantings for water and nutrients. Guards will be regularly inspected and removed after 3 years, when they become brittle, break or start to restrict growth. Trees will also be kept weed free for 3 years through mulching and/or hand weeding, or until their canopy circumference is greater than the weed free soil area. Trees will be during periods of prolonged dry weather within the first year of being planted. A tree is considered established once it demonstrates consistent growth, is producing new buds and remains firm when it is gently pulled from above. Underground guying might be considered to increase resilience to high winds while tree barriers, pits or containers may prevent root damage to pavements and roads. Requirements will vary by tree size, site and environmental conditions and are summarised in table 4 on page 23.
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Establishment and Maintenance cont. 24 Tree size Dimensions Tree pit requirements Minimum / recommended protection Aftercare and maintenance Inspection period Whip Unbranched, bare root N/A Spiral guard and cane Remove guards if restricting or brittle. Inspect every 6 months until established Initially 3-6 month Until established then annually Potted 2-3ft high 1.5 x pot rooted diameter Stake Water to establish in line with shrub planting Keep base weed free within pot 6 monthly Standard 6-7ft high, feathered 450 x 450 x 300mm Mulch, tie and stake, guards if required. Water at time of planting and during prolonged dry spells. Remove guards after 3-5 years. Keep base weed free within 0.5m of stem 6 monthly until established then annually Heavy Standard Beginnings of crown, 7-9ft High 600 x 600 x 500mm Mulch, tie, stake or multi stake. Ornate guard in street environment. Water at time of planting and during prolonged dry spells. Remove guards after 3-5 years. Keep base weed free within 0.5m of stem 6 monthly until established then annually Extra Heavy standard Maturer crown, 9-11ft high 700 x 700 x 500mm Mulch , tie, stake or multi stake with architectural guard. Water at time of planting and during prolonged dry spells. Remove guards after 3-5 years. Keep base weed free within 0.5m of stem 6 monthly until established Table 4. Required maintenance for newly planted trees by tree size
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4.4 Planting protections flowchart 25 Protections for newly planted trees Herbivore management Environment protection Watering and nutrient addition Weed control Place loose mulch or mulch mats at the base when planting Hand weed around base of tree For standard trees or larger, install watering tubes when planting Water trees during dry periods, particularly within the first year of being planted Use tree guards for whips or small trees Remove tree guards and stakes once tree is well established Use stakes and adjustable tree ties to support trees in high winds Adjust tree ties as tree grows to prevent choking (minimum 1x per year) Larger trees may require metal mesh guards where beavers are present
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5.0 Memorial Trees Memorial trees are a popular way to remember and commemorate a person or significant milestone. The Council provides the opportunity to plant trees within Council land with a memorial plaque. The species and location of the tree(s) to be planted will be agreed between the requester and Community Greenspace. Not all sites will be suitable for the planting of memorial trees, but Community Greenspace will be able to help find an appropriate location. Most memorial trees will be planted in parks and other amenity greenspaces only where suitable space is available, and any tree planted should follow the guidance within this policy specific to the site they are being planted in. Once a suitable site and tree has been agreed, Community Greenspace will organise the planting of the tree and arrange any required aftercare. All costs will be paid by the requestor and settled up front before planting can take place. The Council will be offering bird and bat boxes as an alternative to tree planting. For more information, please refer to the Memorial Bench & Trees Policy (to be updated 2026). 26 The Council offers the opportunity to plant trees in selected locations in remembrance or commemoration Policy – memorial tree planting
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6.0 Data Recording The Council are working towards producing a comprehensive record of all trees planted on Council land. The information recorded will include the location and date of planting, species and size of tree, any tree protections installed and a timeline for any routine maintenance including removal of tree protections. Planting data can be recorded by all relevant Council staff and will be publicly accessible. Combined with data captured for any tree removals, site surveys and Ash Dieback surveys, this will provide an overview of the Council’s tree inventory and species composition. Accurate analyses of carbon sequestration & survivability rates will be possible, and any long- term trends can be easier identified at a local and Council-wide level. 27 All newly planted trees will be recorded digitally and mapped on ArcGIS Policy – data recording
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7.0 Volunteering for Tree Planting The Council supports a large number of greenspace volunteer groups in most communities throughout Perth and Kinross including bloom groups, path groups, park groups, friends of cemetery, allotment groups and more. All these volunteers and other interested groups are encouraged to take part in community planting. The Council can offer support through organised planting events and training in tree planting, aftercare and maintenance. For more information about volunteering with Community Greenspace, please see the Volunteering with Community Greenspace webpage. The Perth and Kinross Tree Wardens help to plant and monitor trees within Perth & Kinross. The Tree Wardens are supported by the Tayside Biodiversity Partnership who aim to conserve and enhance the biodiversity. 28 ©PKCT
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8.0 Useful links and advice for Council services 29 While trees within different sites may be managed by different Council Services (e.g. Housing & Communities, Education & Learning), the same good practice and principles apply to all Council land, including tree planting. Community Greenspace can offer specialist advice to all services within the Council including tree planting, removal, tree work standards, illegal felling, identification of dangerous and diseased trees and general tree health. Community consultation is undertaken as part of any project or in the development of management plans for or within the Council’s public greenspaces. This may include park upgrades, implementing the Forest Plan and planting activities that may impact the use of any open space or affect neighbouring properties. Active and previous public consultations can be found at the Perth & Kinross Council Consultation Hub. Community Greenspace can be contacted by email at: treeandwoodlands@pkc.gov.uk communitygreenspace@pkc.gov.uk Other resources are available within the Council including the Climate Change team and, for issues related to TPOs or Conservation areas, Planning Enforcement Perth and Kinross Climate Action Trees and Tree Preservation Orders
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Appendix 1 – Trees & Shrubs native to Scotland Alder ◊ Alnus glutinosa Silver birch ∆ Betula pendula Downy birch Betula pubescens Hazel = Corylus avellana Hawthorn ◊ Crataegus monogyna Broom Cytisus scoparius Spindle Euonymus europaeus Ash * Fraxinus excelsior Holly ◊ Ilex aquifolium Juniper ◊ Juniperus communis Crab apple + = Malus sylvestris Scots pine ◊ Pinus sylvestris Black poplar Populus nigra Aspen ◊ Populus tremula Gean = Prunus avium Bird cherry ∆ = Prunus padus Blackthorn Prunus spinosa Sessile oak Quercus petraea Pedunculate oak Quercus robur Red currant Ribes rubrum Erect-spiked red-currant Ribes spicatum Hairy dog rose Rosa caesia caesia Glaucous dog rose Rosa caesia Vosagiaca Dog rose Rosa canina Soft downy rose Rosa mollis Sweet briar Rosa rubiginosa Sherard’s downy rose Rosa sherardii Harsh downy rose Rosa tomentosa Raspberry Rubus idaeus Eared sallow Salix aurita Goat willow Salix caprea Grey willow Salix cinerea Dark leaved willow Salix myrsinifolia Bay willow Salix pentandra Tea-leaved willow Salix phylicifolia Purple willow Salix purpurea Elder = Sambucus nigra Rowan ◊ + ∆ Sorbus aucuparia Yew + ∆ Taxus baccata Small-leaved lime ∆ Tilia cordata Gorse Ulex europaeus Western gorse Ulex gallii Wych elm Ulmus glabra Guelder rose Viburnum opulus 30 * Not to be used - suitability as planting stock suspended due to Ash Dieback + Slow growing species with non invasive roots suitable for planting in vicinity to buildings ◊ Salt tolerant species ∆ Available in fastigiate form = Blossom in Spring / early Summer
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Appendix 2 – Council sites with management plans The Birks of Aberfeldy The Knock, Crieff The Den o’ Alyth Perth City Lade 31 Inchture Park Kingoodie Quarry Invergowrie Park Invergowrie Roadside Strip Muirton and Inveralmond Woods, Perth Bellwood and Norrie-Miller Parks, Perth Craigie Woods, Perth Kinnoull Hill, Perth Moncrieffe Island, Perth Oakbank and Burghmuir, Perth St Magdalene’s Hill, Perth North Inch, Perth South Inch, Perth Tulloch Woods, Perth Viewlands Reservoir Park, Perth Jeanfield Cemetery, Perth Den O’Alyth Larghan Park, Coupar Angus Scone Public Park Loon Braes, Davie Park, Keith Bank and Riverside, Blairgowrie Birks of Aberfeldy, Riverside and Victoria Park Black Spout Wood, Pitlochry Tom na moan Park, Pitlochry Luncarty Woods Lady Mary’s Walk, Crieff MacRosty Park, Mungall Park and Taylor Park, Crieff Puddock Wood, Crieff The Knock of Crieff Jubilee Park, Dunkeld Provost’s Walk and Primrose Park, Auchterarder Abernethy Glen Springfield Park, Kinross Sites within the PKC Forest Plan 2015-2035 are: Sites with individual management plans are: Kinnoull Hill, Perth MacRosty Park, Crieff Larghan Victory Park, Coupar Angus Victoria Park, Aberfeldy
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Appendix 3 – BSI Standards Publications 32 British Standard Description BS 3936 Nursery Stock Specification for Trees and Shrubs Sets out specifications for quality, size and labelling of trees and shrubs BS 8545 Trees from nursery to Independence Covers approved planting guidelines using new plantings while covering aspects of nursery production BS 5837 Trees in relation to design, demolition and construction Specifically, recommendations regarding planting trees in vicinity of buildings Information on all British Standards for tree are available at the BSI website