Why we plant so many species of street trees

street tree planting crew in action

Did you know that there are about 300 different species of street trees growing across our City.

Species are selected to suit the environment where they will be planted, taking into account soil quality and availability.

“A verge is one of the harshest environments for a tree to grow,” said Marcus Hannath, City of Tea Tree Gully supervisor arboriculture and biodiversity.

“We plant trees that are easy to maintain and drought-tolerant so they can cope with the effects of climate change.

“Some trees are beautiful, but they’re just too thirsty.”

Recently some non-local native species suited to harsh environments have been trialled successfully in local streets, such as tuckeroos (Cupaniopsis anacardioides) and wilgas (Geijera parviflora). 

“We also don’t want to put all our eggs in the one basket, in case of a tree disease or pest that could wipe out an entire species, such as Dutch Elm Disease,” said Marcus.

Other considerations include: 

  • SA Power Networks guidelines to avoid issues with trees growing into wires
  • Neighbourhood character
  • Other street trees in the area – if your street has existing street trees, the same species will generally be replanted
  • Cost of ongoing pruning
  • Shading properties
  • Bushfire risk.

You’ll be notified if street trees are going to be planted in your street. If there isn’t already a dominant species, you’ll be asked to have your say on the species selection.

More about street trees and trees on private property
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