20 native trees planted to in Newbridge replace ones lost in storm

Newbridge Tidy Towns planted 20 native species recently at Linear Park along the Strand in Newbridge as part of their tree planting programme.

They planted 12 Alder (Alnus glutinosa), and eight Silver Birch (Betula pendula) rootballed trees, replacing trees which were blown down in recent stormy weather.

“The trees are 18 – 20 cm girth semi-mature rootballed Silver Birch – these trees are three to four times the size of the tree normally planted in a domestic garden,” said Deaglan de Paor of the Tidy Towns Assocation.

“The Silver Birch is one of our most attractive native trees and its seeds are popular with small seed-eating birds.”

Both Alder and Silver Birch are described as ideal trees for planting in a riverside location, and they are good for Irish wildlife - the seeds of both trees are popular with small seed-eating birds.

Both species are native, and like Oak & Ash are traditional in Ireland, are widely distributed around the country.

“The Alder have been planted closer to the riverbank because their strong roots will over time help to bind the soil and keep the riverbank in place; the Birch which will grow in marginal soil has been planted back from the river’s edge”.

The Association source their semi-mature trees from SAP Nurseries in Cahir who have over 450 acres of home grown, quality Irish trees, and the Association will continue their planting programme until National Tree Week which will be held this year from March 2 to 8 March.

“If planting a tree plant native species.”

National Tree Week is an annual, week-long festival celebrating all positive aspects of trees in the environment. It is organised by the Tree Council of Ireland with the support of Coillte.