Trees are one of the most resilient forms of life existing on the planet. With regular care a tree can last for decades or perhaps even longer surviving for future generations to enjoy. Tree conservation is an activity we could all participate in; if only just a little it is still helping our trees instead of depleting them.

Active Conservation

Britain is home to many specimens of ancient trees which require preservation in order for future generations to enjoy. There are many bodies which exist in Britain who are dedicated to preserving trees which have stood the test of time.

Conservation is an extremely beneficial activity to carry out but it is worth bearing in mind the resilient nature of trees themselves. Many trees have survived for so long without interaction from any external forces and may not require any form o f conservative maintenance.

Getting Involved

If you have found an ancient tree which appears to be in need of a little maintenance it is important to put in a little preparation work first. Make sure you are well informed about the surrounding area.

Find out if the tree is based on any private or farm land. If it is based on privately owned land then don't immediately be deterred from maintaining the tree. Enquire to find out owner of the land and find out if it's suitable to attempt tree maintenance in the area.

Maintaining and conserving a tree requires different techniques for different varieties of trees. It is worth bearing in mind that although there are often courses of action that have been recommended with great results for a particular variety of tree other factors may need to be taken into account.

Specific varieties of trees will obviously thrive from the same conditions. However different climates and differences in the local environment may produce adverse results.

When conserving a tree there are only a few simple tasks you can carry out without interfering with natures work. Most maintenance jobs are fall into one of the categories below.

• Work will offered be focussed on the trees surroundings in relation to the maintenance of the tree. Principles found in all aspects of gardening will apply here including providing the tree with adequate exposure to sun light and water, making sure the conditions of the soil are fitting for the roots and being aware of potential fire hazards.
• Ancient trees may require help with their stability over time. In previous generations spanning back centuries trees were much more closely protected and received far more routine maintenance. Preserving a collapsing tree may involve a degree of trial and error as even similar trees within the same locality may require different approaches. Over time external factors (particularly the weather) can't be accounted for which increases the unpredictable nature of the task.
• Regeneration is an important aspect of tree conservation. In areas with few ancient trees remaining it is important to nurture a further generation of trees to grow so that there can be more to enjoy in the future. It is important to bear in mind the factors in the area which have allowed the existing specimens to survive for so long. After weighing up the conditions you can then implement a plan to encourage further trees to the area.