Is it worth planting large trees?

Have you ever wondered why it is worth introducing large trees to the project? What compensates for the cost of planting a large, shaped tree? What role do trees play in the city, where the air quality leaves much to be desired, as does the higher temperature accumulated by highly urbanized spaces?

In investments, costs often affect the final decision when it comes to purchasing plantings. In new projects, in development or road projects, we can encounter young tree seedlings growing up to one, sometimes one and a half meters high. However, fully shaped, perennial trees are still an exception, and if they appear, they become iconic from the very beginning. In addition, a large tree is an instant effect, you do not have to wait many years for a nice crown to develop or provide shade in the city. Trees over 5 meters tall are a frequently used element in promotional folders or advertising communications. Why is that? When it comes to trees, size matters. There are two levels of reception. Fist is rational, because the larger the tree, the greater its ability to produce oxygen or store carbon. The second is the sensual-aesthetic level. Trees with a shaped crown, the so-called large trees, become a visible element of the urban landscape. It is also a living organism and a place of rest for many species of animals, including birds, which in the spring and summertime can bring harmony by their singing, so sought after in opposition to the street noises.

The impact of large trees on the ecosystem is varied:

1. Oxygen production: Trees are one of the most important oxygen producers on Earth through photosynthesis. Large trees can produce large amounts of oxygen, which is a prerequisite for life.

2. Carbon fixation: Trees are also important carbon stores. Through photosynthesis, they take carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it in their tissue. Large trees store much more carbon than small trees, which means they are vital ingredients in the fight against global warming.

3. Soil protection: The roots of large trees help keep the earth in place, which helps prevent soil erosion. In addition, falling leaves and tree branches provide nutrients to the soil, which is important for healthy plant growth. Falling leaves often become a natural thermal insulator and refuge for many species of animals during the winter, such as hedgehogs.

4. Living environment for animals: Large trees are home to many species of animals, including mammals, birds, reptiles and insects. Trees provide food and protection from predators.

5. They care about lowering the temperature: in the summer, trees create a microclimate by shading the heating surfaces over several degrees Celsius. They stop both concrete and asphalt surfaces from overheating.

The choice of tree species to be planted in the city should be carefully considered, as they will have to deal with various challenges such as air pollution, limited root space and lack of water. The list of species is vast and we will not quote it here. For more information on recommended tree species, please visit the website of Made In Forest, which specializes in the sale of high greenery and its transport to the investment area. It is important that the trees are selected with the aim of insolation in the direct space and take into account the changing climate.

The solution in the case of a small space are the anti-compression systems available on the market, which protect the roots against excessive pressure and prevent deformation of the ground, which has a positive effect on both the tree and the adjacent surface. Large trees are also a shade, which we appreciate especially in the summer, when not only cars heat up to very high level, but also pavements and roads. The air under the crowns can be even several degrees cooler than that on the street without shadeⁱ.

The costs of planting large trees, i.e. those whose height exceeds 5 meters, are significant and can range from several to several dozen thousand zlotys per tree, depending on the species, circumference and availability, however, the above-mentioned photosynthesis, carbon storage and lowering of air temperature and land become immeasurable in any currency. Undoubtedly, this affects our health and well-being of the entire ecosystem. Greenery introduced to cities in a smart way can build the brand of the investment and increase its market value in the perspective of (re)sale.