Kai Findlay Arboriculturalist Services

Under careful management trees in gardens can become the most valuable habitat in the UK. Peoples gardens support half of our amphibian and reptile species and around forty percent of birds. Bird feeders have replaced wild forage and now some wild populations are reliant almost entirely on seed and fat balls commonly seen in garden centers and purchased by the public for their gardens at home. In a world with ever fewer natural green spaces, Managed gardens fill an increasingly important environmental role. The diversity and complexity of private green spaces creates a rich environment that is responsible for providing the things we need from the ecology around us. Clean air, flood prevention, habitat, new soil and shade.

While the majority of species rich environments have been cleared and maintained for farming or development, Private gardens face fewer of the restraints than larger landscape managers. The value of small site owners cannot be overstated, the ability to put far greater care and resources into smaller areas removes the cost constraints that hamper larger scale projects. High value habitat, recreation and utility can be planned side by side.

Management can be tailored for environmental objectives as well as aesthetic and safety reasons. There are many wild species that given the chance, would happily call a small garden home. Small management changes, careful pruning techniques and habitat creation can invite these creatures into yours. From bug hotels and bird perches to ponds and woodpiles there is a huge range of options to provide refuge for vulnerable animal species in urban landscapes

While most modern gardens no longer mirror the local natural ecology, modified microclimates, heavy shade, greenhouses and an array of other management practices  provide a diverse range of growing environments in a very small area this provides the conditions for a wide range of species and makes ideal habitat corridors. The public have the opportunity to keep these environments intact. Urban wildlife populations are often the only wild creatures modern people have any opportunity of observing or interacting with. Keeping these areas healthy is not only important for the use and enjoyment of your own space but important for the greater landscape to.

There are some legal responsibilities when it comes to owning trees, details can be found here and here. These responsibilities help ensure that trees and people can co-exist safely. Good management of trees can prevent future issues and help the tree live to its full potential. Most trees spend the majority of their lives without any major problems, A brief inspection can clarify this, prove diligence and put minds a ease.