We have almost navigated our way through a rather extraordinary spring, with a short dry hot spell in between some very wet and prolonged weather. However, this is not all bad news.

Trees and Hedge plants enjoyed the rain
Things like Photinia Red Robin and Prunus Laurocerasus (laurel) would have been in serious trouble if the reverse was the case and we experienced a very dry spring. In the past the extra dry spring has caused severe losses amongst new plantings like native tree and shrubs. Particularly affected would have been container grown trees that are in the first flush of growth and require as much energy as possible in the early growth stages.
Trees shrubs, conifers and hedging will all survive a short period of water logging, although good drainage is usually essential.

Particularly happy with the wet weather will be the Willows, Dogwoods and trees such as Betula Nigra, the river birch, which are well suited to these conditions. Poplars also like a nice wet spring as they are particularly fast growing and require lots of moisture to get them going.

Yew or Taxus as they are sometimes known are, however, particularly sensitive to waterlogging. Those plants that have been installed without extra drainage provision will be turning a brown colour about now, and replacement plants will be scarce indeed, as the rootball season has now finished.

Irrigation and drainage are an essential part of successful planting
At The Tree Nursery in Rayne, when asked, we are always willing to offer advice on correct installation procedures for different species. Please ask if you are unsure or we can quote you to carry out the whole procedure for you.