Horsham’s street tree program sees nearly 700 trees planted this winter

Horsham Rural City Council’s annual street tree program will see the trees and environment team plant more than 700 trees by the end of next month.

More than 600 street trees have been planted on nature strips as part of Horsham Rural City Council’s annual street tree program with Mayor Robyn Gulline advising that the long term goal was to have a street tree in front of every property where the location was suitable.

Mayor Gulline highlighted that trees assisted in the creation of neighbourhood character and the identity of urban streets commenting “a well treed streetscape is visually appealing and importantly reduces the impact of radiant heat. Having cooler shadier streets in summer encourages people to get out-and-about more often.”

Mayor Gulline noted “the tree planting program is conducted between June and August as this is the optimal time for planting to give the trees the best chance of survival.

“The trees are selected to suit our local climate. Some are chosen specifically for planting under power lines so they do not cause maintenance issues when they are fully grown.”

This season more than 40 trees have been planted following requests from residents. Popular species include elms, lily pillies and a variety of eucalypts.

Mayor Gulline advised “we are now coming to the end of the planting season and we will be doing it all again next year.

“In the first year after planting and while the tree is establishing, residents are asked to help with some initial care and watering, particularly in the summer.”

Council staff undertake extensive watering and maintenance of new trees for the first two years after they are planted.

The program covers all of the Horsham urban area including some streets in Horsham North where there are fewer established trees.

Residents can request a new nature strip tree, or to replace an existing tree, lodge an online request 

Image: Horsham Rural City Council’s annual street tree program Rob Larsen, Millie Spence and Montana Petering