TREE

PLANTING
European Tree Planting Standard
 EUROPEAN ARBORICULTURAL STANDARDS

Tree Planting Standard 2022

BG: Засаждане на дървета HU: Faültetés

CS: Výsadba stromů IT: Piantagione degli alberi
DA: Træplantning LT: Medžių ir krūmų sodinimas
DE: Baumpflanzung LV: Koku stādīšana
EL: Φύτευση δένδρων MT: Tħawwil tas-siġar
EN: Tree Planting NL: Planten van bomen
ES: Plantación de árboles PL: Sadzenie drzew
ET: Puude istutamine PT: Plantação de árvores
FI: Puiden istuttaminen RO: Plantare de arbori
FR: Plantation d` arbres SK: Výsadba stromov
GA: Plandáil crann SL: Sajenje dreves
HR: Sadnja stabala SV: Trädplantering

We are very grateful for all comments and support of national arboricultural representatives and
individual arborists across Europe, who responded to the call for cooperation on the text of this
standard.

This standard is intended to define the technical procedures used for planting amenity trees.

The European Commission‘s support for the production of this

publication does not constitute an endorsement of the contents,
which reflect the views only of the authors, and the Commission
cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the
information contained therein.

1
Editorial:
Standard text:
Working group “Technical Standards in Treework – TeST”

Team of authors:
Jaroslav Kolařík (team coordinator, Czech Republic)
Junko Oikawa-Radscheit (Germany, European Arboricultural Council)
Dirk Dujesiefken (Germany)
Thomas Amtage (Germany)
Tom Joye (Belgium)
Kamil Witkoś-Gnach (Poland)
Beata Pachnowska (Poland)
Paolo Pietrobon (Italy)
Henk van Scherpenzeel (Netherlands)
Gerard Passola (Spain)
Daiga Strēle (Republic of Latvia)
Algis Davenis (Lithuania)
Tomáš Fraňo (Slovak Republic)
Goran Huljenić (Croatia)

Text revision:
Simon Richmond (United Kingdom)
Keith Sacre (United Kingdom)
Sarah Bryce (United Kingdom)

© Working group “Technical Standards in Treework – TeST”, August 2022 (1st edition)

Pictures:
Olga Klubova (Republic of Latvia)

Recommended reference:
European Tree Planting Standard (2022). EAS 03:2022. European Arboricultural Standards
(EAS), Working group “Technical Standards in Tree Work (TeST)”.

EAS 03:2022 (EN) – European Tree Planting Standard.

If you want to translate text of the standard to other languages, please contact the project leader
on info@arboristika.cz

Attribution-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-ND 4.0), we welcome translations of the text to other languages

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Table of Contents:
1. Purpose and content of the standard 5
1.0 Purpose 5
1.1 Main objectives 5
1.2 Biosecurity 6
2. Normative references 7
2.1 Qualification 7
2.2 General safety requirements 7
3. Location of tree planting 8
3.1 Regions 8
3.2 Site inspection 8
3.3 Tree species selection 9
3.4 Preconditions of the planting site 9
3.5 Potential underground space 10
3.6 Types of soil 10
3.7 Open growing place 11
3.8 Degraded soil conditions 11
3.9 Planting spots in hard surfaces 12
4. Tree stock quality 13
4.1 Introduction 13
4.2 General features 13
4.3 Desired image of adult tree 16
4.4 Additional quality requirements for open-grown trees 16
4.5 Additional quality requirements for park trees 17
4.6 Additional quality requirements for avenue trees 18
4.7 Procedure for tree hand-over 19
5. Standard planting procedure 20
5.1 Introduction 20
5.2 Time of planting 20
5.3 Transport 22
5.4 Root management 23
5.5 Site and soil amendment 23
5.6 Planting pit 24
5.7 Tree placement / planting 26
5.8 Anchorage systems 27
5.9 Stem and crown protection 30
5.10 Mulching 30
5.11 Water supply systems 31
5.12 Tree pruning at planting 31
6. Additional technical solutions 32
6.0 Introduction 32
6.1 Compaction for infrastructure 32
6.2 Structural soils 33
6.3 Pressure distributing systems 34
6.4 Soil cells and tree bunkers 34
6.5 Root bridges 35
6.6 Root pathways 35
6.7 Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) 35
6.8 Aeration systems 35
6.9 Grilles 37
6.10 Modifications of the immediate surroundings of the trees 38
6.11 Root barriers 39
6.12 Car protection 39
6.13 Planting in waterlogged soils 39

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7. Post-planting tree care 40
7.0 Introduction 40
7.1 Inspection and removal of anchoring and protective elements 40
7.2 Tree pruning 40
7.3 Water supply 40
7.4 Weeding 41
7.5 Protection against pests and diseases 41
7.6 Mulch replenishment 41
8. Palm tree planting 42
8.1 Palm tree specifics 42
8.2 Palm planting procedure 42
APPENDICES 44
9.1 Appendix 1 List of trees and tree-formed shrubs with an optimum on alkaline soils
(above pH 7) 44
9.2 Appendix 2 - List of trees and tree-formed shrubs tolerant to acidic soils (below pH 4) 46
9.3 Appendix 3 – List of tree species sensitive to salinity 47
9.4 Appendix 4 – List of invasive tree species 48
9.5 Appendix 5 – Limits for growth conditions of trees 49
9.6 Appendix 6 – List of tree species (examples) according to expected crown size in maturity 50
9.7 Appendix 7 – Relationship of Proctor density to bulk density of soils 51
9.8 Appendix 8 – Indicative list of tree species according to the strategy model 52
REFERENCES 53
ABBREVIATIONS 54

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 Tree
1. Purpose and content of the standard Planting
Standard

1.0 Purpose
1.0.1 This standard was published by the working 1.0.4 The standard sets out safety criteria for
group of the TeST project (Technical Stan- arborists and other workers engaged in
dards in Tree Work) in cooperation with the arboricultural operations. It serves as a re-
EAC (European Arboricultural Council) and ference for safety requirements for those
was released in August 2022. engaged in tree-planting procedures.
1.0.2 In the text of the standard the following 1.0.5 Each person must be responsible for their
formulations are used: own safety on the job site and must comply
- where the standard says „can“, with the appropriate federal or state pro-
this refers to possible options, fessional safety and health standards and
- where the standard says „should“, all rules and regulations that are applicab-
this refers to a recommendation, le to their own actions. Each person must
- where the standard says „must“, also read and follow the manufacturer’s
this refers to mandatory activities. instructions for the tools, equipment and
1.0.3 The purpose of the standard is to present machinery that he/she uses.
the common techniques, procedures and
requirements related to planting trees in
non-forest environments.

1.1 Main objectives

1.1.1 Planting amenity trees is one of the most im- 1.1.3 The standard presents common fundamen-
portant arboricultural activities and it should tal practices used in European countries.
be carried out in a way that ensures the es- 1.1.4 Other different practices and preferences,
tablishment and successful development of based on national and regional experien-
young trees. ces, are listed in the national appendices.
1.1.2 The standard is intended for application in
the planting of trees whose main purpose is
not the production of fruits, wood and other
commodities.

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1.2 Biosecurity
1.2.1 People who are professionally involved in 1.2.6 Phytosanitary passports for nursery trees
working on trees are inherently at high risk must contain certain prescribed elements
of transmitting pests and diseases between when the trees are moved within the EU.
trees and worksites and thus should apply One of these elements is called the „tracea-
appropriate biosecurity procedures to limit bility code“.2
this risk. 1.2.7 All trees for planting, including auxiliary ma-
1.2.2 To reduce the risk of transmitting pests and terial, must be free of diseases and pests,
diseases, the cleaning of tools and other especially species monitored within the EU.3
equipment should be part of daily main- 1.2.8 Natural/organic products should be used in
tenance. All equipment should be cleaned preference to plastics.
and disinfected after use on each site. 1.2.9 Avoid transporting soil and plant material
1.2.3 Where there is a high probability of trees being (woodchip) over large distances; preferably,
infected with contagious pests and diseases, use local material.
increased biosecurity standards must be 1.2.10 Planting of host tree species in areas whe-
implemented. National legislation applies. re significant pests and diseases are present
1.2.4 Nursery trees should be provided with a tree should be considered carefully.3 The State
passport stating: Phytosanitary Administration provides an up
- the tree species, -to-date list of quarantine pathogenic orga-
- a code tracing the producer, nisms and their host plants.
- the country of origin of the tree.1 1.2.11 New plantings should preferably improve
1.2.5 Every tree should come from the nursery species diversity on the site to improve re-
with a label stating its full scientific name and sistance to the spread of potential pests and
size class. diseases.

1 European, national/regional legislation applies.

2 EU Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2020/1770.
3 Regulation (EU) 2016/2031 of the European Parliament of the Council of 26 October 2016 on protective measures
against pests of plants, amending Regulations (EU) No 228/2013, (EU) No 652/2014 and (EU) No 1143/2014 of the Eu-
ropean Parliament and of the Council and repealing Council Directives 69/464/EEC, 74/647/EEC, 93/85/EEC, 98/57/
EC, 2000/29/EC, 2006/91/EC and 2007/33/EC.

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 Tree
2. Normative references Planting
Standard

2.0 This standard is complementary to other

EU standards and national/regional regu-
lations.

2.1 Qualification
2.1.1 Planting of trees and related arboricultural recognised for practising arborists:
operations are professional activities that - European Tree Worker (EAC),
can only be performed by a suitably trained - ISA Certified Arborist.
and experienced worker or by a trainee 2.1.4 The following certification schemes are re-
under supervision. cognised for consulting arborists:
2.1.2 Planting of trees is covered by variety of - European Tree Technician (EAC),
formal educational programmes in the dis- - ISA Board Certified Master Arborist.
ciplines of forestry, horticulture, arboricul- 2.1.5 Meeting the standards of professional
ture and gardening. qualification includes continuous professi-
2.1.3 Generally accepted proof of an arborist’s onal development/lifelong learning.
qualifications is established by internati- National qualification may be recognised
onal or national certifications. Within the locally. These are listed in the national
EU, the following certification schemes are appendices to this standard.

2.2 General safety requirements

2.2.1 Tools and equipment must conform to the traffic control techniques, device usage and
requirements of CE and EN standards and placement, and safe procedures for wor-
certification. king near traffic.
2.2.2 A site-specific risk assessment (SSRA) 2.2.5 Arborists and other workers exposed to risk
must be carried out and all relevant con- of highway traffic must wear high-visibility
trol measures, plus a briefing for the work, safety clothing which meets the require-
must be communicated to all workers by ments of national regulations.
the qualified arborist/supervisor on site. 2.2.6 Arborists and other workers who use any
2.2.3 Traffic and pedestrian control around the equipment, tools or machinery must be fa-
worksite must be established prior to the miliar with safe work practices and the use
start of any arboricultural operations. of appropriate personal protective equip-
2.2.4 Arborists and other personnel working ment (PPE) in line with the manufacturers‘
near traffic and operating temporary traffic instructions for the tools, machinery and
control zones must be trained in temporary equipment in use.

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 Tree
3. Location of tree planting Planting
Standard

3.1 Regions
3.1.1 In each country, there are different re- these systems also consider pedological
gional systems for defining growing are- and geological contexts.
as, based on experience of tree planting 3.1.2 See the national appendices for the regi-
(mainly in forestry) and crop production. on(s) definition.
As a rule, in addition to climatic factors,

3.2 Site inspection

3.2.1 Initial desktop research should be part of groundwater levels. This can be done either
a planting plan, including details of futu- by assessing soil horizons (e.g. gley) or by
re urban development plans, the location visually assessing the surroundings (e.g.
of underground and above-ground infra- proximity of watercourses, signs of water-
structure and its protective zones, and logging, etc.).
other legislative restrictions (e.g. heritage, 3.2.5 The speed of water infiltration into the soil
nature protection). and movement of water through the soil
3.2.2 A field survey should identify parameters: are assessed using infiltration tests within
a) using visual characteristics, the planting pit.4
b) using approximate indication tech- 3.2.6 Compaction of urban soils for constructi-
niques, on purposes requires levels of compaction
c) using field instruments. up to 95% Proctor density.5 These levels of
3.2.3 A field assessment of growing conditions compaction inhibit root colonisation. The
must be performed prior to planting. This maximum compaction which will still allow
can include: root growth is around 85%. Planting trees
- above-ground space, in higher compaction levels is not advisable.
- visual inspection of general soil 3.2.7 Soils which are compacted above 85% Pro-
properties, ctor density, or 3 MPa measured with the
- level of soil compaction (soil pro- penetrometer, will need decompaction to
be or penetrometer), allow for root growth.
- water infiltration test. 3.2.8 Soils that need to be compacted above
Laboratory analysis may be appropriate for 85% Proctor density for infrastructure buil-
analysis of soils. ding purposes and which are also required
3.2.4 When appropriate, also assess the hydrolo- to accommodate root growth will need au-
gy of the planting location and its potential xiliary technical solutions to facilitate this
impact on the tree, e.g. in places with high (e.g. replacement by structural soil).

4 This type of hydrodynamic test is based on the rapid infusion of a certain volume of water into the planting pit. The rate
of decrease of the water level in the well is then proportional to the permeability of the investigated horizon. Proper
evaluation of this hydrodynamic test requires measuring the water level in the probe at regular intervals.
5 The Proctor compaction test is a laboratory method of experimentally determining the optimal moisture content at
which a given soil type will become most dense and achieve its maximum dry density. Tests generally consist of compac-
ting soil at known moisture content into a cylindrical mould with a collar of standard dimensions of height and diameter
using a compactive force of controlled magnitude. The graphical relationship of the dry density to moisture content is
then plotted to establish the compaction curve. The maximum dry density is finally obtained from the peak point of the
compaction curve and its corresponding moisture content, also known as the optimal moisture content. For a 100%
Proctor test, density varies depending of soil typology. In clay soils Proctor 100% give densities of 1.7 g/cm3; for loam
soils 1.8 g/cm3; and for sandy soil about 2.2 g/cm3.

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3.3 Tree species selection
3.3.1 The basic procedure for tree species selec- composition in the region (including rare
tion for a specific site is to carry out a site species), as well as tree species traditionally
survey and an assessment of growing condi- used in the area.
tions. This must consider the site’s altitude as 3.3.5 When planting in urbanised areas, the prin-
well as other conditions – e.g. solar and wind cipal issue to consider is the taxon’s ability
exposure, soil, landscape topography, etc. to survive on the site while optimally perfor-
3.3.2 To maintain natural genetic variability, it is ming the required functions. As a result, int-
advisable to use local (regional) sources of roduced species and cultivars are frequently
planting material, particularly for rare species. used. Use of taxa with the potential to be in-
3.3.3 Resistance to frost/drought/heat is an im- vasive is restricted.6 (See Appendix 4.)
portant limiting factor for tree selection. The 3.3.6 When trees are planted along roads, the im-
resistance of tree species and adaptation of pact of winter road maintenance should be
trees to a specific site should be considered. taken into account. It might be appropriate
3.3.4 In a natural landscape it is advisable to use to select salt-tolerant species. Tree species
species that correspond to the natural plant sensitive to salinity are listed in Appendix 3.

3.4 Preconditions of the planting site

3.4.1 Before a planting site is selected, a survey trees, etc. must be taken into consideration.
must be carried out to locate utility networks 3.4.4 As a principle, it is not advisable to plant new
(underground cables, overhead power lines, trees under the crowns of existing ones.
pipelines, etc.) in the area. Protective zones 3.4.5 The distance between planted trees (pitch)
for utility networks are specified in national/ should correspond to the target dimensions
regional regulations. of the crown of the mature tree of the given
3.4.2 Trees along roads (“linear forest”) are essen- species (in general 50–100% of the crown
tial to achieve aesthetic, biological and spread of a mature tree). Where trees are
microclimatic benefits as well as an adequate deliberately planted at a denser pitch (e.g.
environment for drivers (low sun protection, when establishing tree stands), the technical
speed limitation, etc.). report must set out the necessary follow-up
3.4.3 Space for above-ground tree parts. The plan- procedures (pruning or thinning) and inclu-
ting site must allow the crown to develop de a time-frame for these interventions.
to the dimensions of a mature individual of 3.4.6 Special requirements resulting from the
the given species. Exceptions may include condition of the planting site and the servi-
where trees are planted that will be shaped ces required of the tree will influence the
in the future, or for temporary plantings. choice of species (cultivar) and must be re-
Surrounding buildings, street infrastructure, spected (specific clearance, maximum tree
above-ground utility networks, surrounding height, etc.).

6 Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2014 on the prevention
and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species

9
3.5 Potential underground space
3.5.1 Any planting site must have enough under- the specific situation, tree size and the type
ground growing space (rootable volume) for of infrastructure but is typically between
new roots to develop so that the tree can 0.5 m and 3 m.
grow sustainably. 3.5.6 On existing tree sites these distances can
3.5.2 Rootable volume comprises all soil and sub- often not be respected when (re)planting
strates that can accommodate root growth trees, so mitigating or repetitive remedial
(that is, enough oxygen, moisture and mine- measures (see chapter 6 - Additional tech-
ral supply with a healthy soil food web). nical solutions) might be necessary to mini-
3.5.3 The size of the rootable volume will differ mise future conflicts.
according to the spatial requirements of 3.5.7 Planting trees within the protective zones of
different tree species (see Appendix 5). utility infrastructure may require the agree-
3.5.4 The rootable volume is quoted in m3. The usa- ment of the utility manager and the use of au-
ble depth of the rootable volume of trees is xiliary technical solutions to reduce conflicts.
at least 0.5 m and usually no more than 1.5 m. 3.5.8 Installation of new utility infrastructure
3.5.5 For new urban designs, it is advisable to within the root protection zones of trees is
avoid conflicts between tree roots and in- not advisable. Where necessary, all means
frastructure by respecting a minimum ob- must be taken to protect rootable volume
stacle-free distance between the tree and and the root systems of existing trees (e.g.
the infrastructure. This distance depends on trenchless technologies).

Figure 1 : Representation of the development of the volume of

the crown and the root system in the process of tree growth.

3.6 Types of soil

3.6.1 In general, we distinguish 4 specific types 3.6.4 The capacity for water storage and water
of soil: delivery in sandy soils depends on the per-
- clay, centage of organic matter (stable humus)
- loam (silt), and/or percentage of clay/loam particles.
- sand, 3.6.5 Planting trees in peat soils is not common
- peat. in urban situations. Trees planted in peat are
3.6.2 Clay soils have low drainage and low aera- growing on unstable soils and have a shor-
tion, but good mineral and water retention ter life expectancy. Smaller-sized trees
capacity. These soils can easily be over- should be preferred.
compacted. The planting pit should drain 3.6.6 The depth of the peat layer and the pH level
sufficiently so that waterlogging is prevented. must be measured before planting to select
3.6.3 Sandy soils have good drainage and aeration, the most suitable tree species for the site.
but low mineral and water retention capaci-
ty. These soils dry out quickly and, in general,
even if compacted retain sufficient porosity.

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3.7 Open growing locations
3.7.1 Trees planted in normal soil that is not de-
graded usually do not need special measu-
res.
3.7.2 Minimal soil amendments can be provided
to optimise tree resilience, e.g. improving
root space, oxygen supply, moisture reten-
tion, mineral supply and the soil food web.

Figure 2: Planting trees into open growing sites.

3.8 Degraded soil conditions

3.8.1 Degraded conditions can occur in soils that
are otherwise suitable for planting but whe-
re rooting space is significantly limited by
compaction or deposition of heterogene-
ous layers.
3.8.2 After assessing the main causes of the de-
gradation, soil improvement must be imple-
mented to restore site conditions suitable
for planting trees, as described above. This
can include:
- increasing rootable volume,
- decompaction,
- mixing heterogenous, obstructi-
ve soil layers,
- soil amendments (e.g. compost
(tea), sand, clay, lava, biochar,
limestone – depending on the
problem),
- soil replacement by suitable high
-quality planting substrate (only if
it is impossible to sufficiently im-
prove the current soil).
3.8.3 Soil improvement must be carried out in the
full rootable volume, as indicated in 5.5., not
just in the planting pit.

Figure 3: Planting trees into degraded soil conditions

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3.9 Planting in hard surfaces
3.9.1 As a result of traffic load, planting locations
under hard surfaces are often too compac-
ted. To avoid compaction of the rootable
volume, auxiliary technical solutions can be
used to accommodate tree growth, such as
structural soils, soil cells, etc. (See section
6.)
3.9.2 A specific concern in relation to rootable
volume under hard surfaces is the availabi-
lity of gas exchange between the soil and
the outside air to supply sufficient oxygen
to the tree roots.
3.9.3 Pavements with an open structure. This kind
of pavement has sufficient joints between
the elements for water and air to infiltrate
the soil.
3.9.4 However, pavements with an open structu-
re (green pavements) often need a higher
level of subsoil compaction, which can ne-
gatively impact root growth. Also, the water
and air infiltration capacity of these open
pavements often degrades over time due to
the accumulation of dirt in the upper layers
of open joints.
3.9.5 Often the only surface free of paving is the
tree pit itself, which limits the availability of
water and air infiltration. To meet the needs
of the tree, the open area around the tree
pit should be as large as possible.

Figure 4: Planting trees into hard surfaces

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 Tree
4. Tree stock quality Planting
Standard

4.1 Introduction
4.1.1 Trees can adapt to local environmental con- 4.1.5 The current trend in urban forestry is to plant
ditions. This adaptability is partly genetic and increasingly large tree stock. However, it is
partly linked to the individual tree. The youn- recommended that smaller trees are plan-
ger the tree, the greater its ability to adapt to ted in general (preferably between 12–16 cm
its environment. stem circumference), as these will:
4.1.2 In some cases, a tree’s adaptation to nursery - suffer less from planting shock,
conditions (climate, soil, etc.) can reduce its - require a less intensive and shorter
capacity to grow well in other environmental aftercare period,
conditions. Trees from nurseries might need - demonstrate better hierarchy (for-
some time to adapt to the environmental ming one dominant leader),
conditions of the new planting position. - resume growth faster,
4.1.3 It is preferable to obtain trees from a nursery - exhibit less quality loss related to
with similar environmental conditions to tho- nursery practice (e.g., topping,
se of the planting site. If there is no nursery fertilising)
nearby or with similar conditions, it is better - adapt better to the local envi-
to maximise the capacity for adaptation by ronmental conditions.
specifying very young trees; it is also possi- 4.1.6 The size of a tree is specified in terms of cir-
ble to produce adapted trees from cuttings cumference class (e.g. 12/14), which sets out
or seeds and grow them on in final envi- the minimum and maximum stem circumfe-
ronmental conditions. rence in cm, measured at 1 m above root collar
4.1.4 The most important features for adaptability level (except for multi-stemmed trees, which
in urban trees are: are specified in height classes, see section 4.4).
- drought resistance, 4.1.7 Where an immediate visual impact is required,
- frost resistance, e.g when restoring tree avenues, or to reduce
- heat resistance, the risk of vandalism and other types of da-
- preference for soil pH (this is not mage, larger tree stock dimensions may be
only genetic but also related to mycorrhiza preferred, but these larger trees will require
and other soil food web partners). a  longer maintenance (acclimatisation) peri-
od to become established and grow normally.

4.2 Essential features of trees accepted for planting

4.2.1 Data on labels or tags (species, cultivar, size, place after quality control and at the in-
quality, number of transplants, number of struction of the leading official or client.
units in pack, total number) must be accura- 4.2.5 All historical pruning cuts must be surroun-
te. Plants must be delivered in accordance ded by callus (note that the cuts do not
with the purchase order and delivery note. need to be completely occluded). Pruning
4.2.2 The stem must be solid and have a normal cuts must be maximum of 3 cm in diameter
taper (thicker below than above). (4 cm in diameter for fast-growing species
4.2.3 The stem must have no bruising, open stem like Populus spp., Salix spp., Platanus spp.,
wounds or any other damage. Fraxinus spp. and Ulmus spp.).
4.2.4 All trees must be delivered to site unpru- 4.2.6 Trees must be free of branches with weak
ned (no fresh cuts). Pruning can only take forks (in particular with included bark).

13
4.2.7 No diseases, pests or invasive plant spe- difference in rate of growth; only a  slight
cies must be present on the above-ground bend is acceptable. The graft and the
or below-ground parts of the tree. There rootstock must be well fused and of known
must be no sunburn necrosis, fruit bodies compatibility.
of wood-decay or parasitic fungi, or signs 4.2.11 The crown must be balanced: the tree must
of boring insects or cankers. have branches on all sides.
4.2.8 To avoid frost damage, the annual twigs 4.2.12 The root collar must be straight and unda-
must be completely hardened off (fully lig- maged.
nified) at delivery. 4.2.13 In order to have sufficient fine roots, the
4.2.9 All branches, including the top of the tree, tree must have been transplanted regular-
must show a normal development pattern ly once every 3–5 years (see 4.2.21). The
for the species (no weakened growth in- most recent transplanting date must be at
crement, stagnation or regression). least 2 years before delivery (except con-
4.2.10 On grafted trees, there must not be a bulge tainer-grown trees – see 4.2.23).
or kink at the grafting site, or a noticeable

Figure 5: The root ball of a nursery tree consists of

only approximately 5–10% of the overall root vo-
lume the tree would have achieved if it had been
planted in the ground.

4.2.14 The root system must have both structural long. For trees above a circumference of
roots and fine roots. The root system must be: 14 cm, the minimum root length is double
- well branched and healthy, the circumference class’s lower limit (e.g.
- not dried out, 20/25 cm circumference: minimum root
- with regularly distributed (360°) size 2 × 20 = 40 cm).
and continuous structural roots, 4.2.17 For root-ball trees, the root ball must be
- without evidence of circling roots compact, fully rooted and cohesive: the
or repetitive cuts in the same spot, roots and the soil must form a whole.
- without girdling roots, 4.2.18 The root ball must be wrapped in pure jute
- without roots that have kinks or (hessian, sackcloth) or a similar completely
turns of less than 90°, biodegradable material (which biodegrades
- densely rooted, with abundant and completely after a maximum of 1.5 years).
regularly distributed fine roots. 4.2.19 If the root ball is wrapped in a wire basket,
4.2.15 There must be no root wounds exceeding this must consist of non-galvanised, anne-
2 cm diameter. aled wire mesh.
4.2.16 For bare-rooted trees up to a circumferen- 4.2.20 The root collar must be visible above the
ce of 14 cm, roots must be at least 25 cm root ball.

14
4.2.21 The root ball must have the following mini-
mum size and number of transplantings7:

Size class8 Min. root ball diameter [cm] Number of transplantings

10/12 30 2

12/14 40 3

14/16 45 3

16/18 50 3

18/20 55 3

20/25 60 4

4.2.22 For container-grown trees, the container 4.2.24 Tree should not have circling roots. Howe-
must consist of plastic (solid pot or woven ver, if circling roots are present, their dia-
bag) or a rootable, biodegradable mate- meter must not exceed 0.5 cm and they
rial, which must remain intact until plan- can only be present in the outer 2 cm of the
ting. root ball so they can be shaved off or cut
4.2.23 The tree must not be freshly potted: it at planting without significant root damage.
should have grown in the container for at 4.2.25 The container substrate must be fully rooted,
least a full growing season before delive- without circling roots or roots that have
ry, but no longer than 2 growing seasons developed outside the container.
in the same container. Trees must not be 4.2.26 The container substrate must be in full con-
grown in containers, air pruning pots or tact with the container (not dried out).
similar systems for extended periods as 4.2.27 The root collar must be visible above the
these are not suitable for development of substrate level.
a natural root system. 4.2.28 The container must have the following mini-
mum volume for the tree size class7:

Size class8 Min. container volume [litres]

10/12 25

12/14 50

14/16 50

16/18 65

18/20 65

20/25 100

7 European Nurserystock Association (ENA Edition 2010).

8 Size class indicates circumference of stem in 1 m height.

15
4.3 Desired aspect of adult tree
4.3.1 The quality requirements for trees depend take on the natural habit of the
on the desired aspect of the adult tree. species, with minimal pruning.
Quality requirements are more specific for - Avenue tree (high single stem,
some categories of tree than for others. temporary crown): the tree will
The following categories are identified: have a single stem for desired
- Open-grown tree (natural tree clearance (normally between 4.5
architecture from the base of and 6.5 m9), which is usually hi-
the tree): the tree will have the gher than the height of the tree
natural habit of the species and at delivery. These trees will need
is allowed to grow freely, without repetitive structural pruning to
a  single stem and without (or consolidate the dominant leader
with only minimal) pruning. and establish a tall single stem.
- Park tree (short single stem, 4.3.2 Note that tree species or cultivars without
permanent crown): the tree will apical dominance (e.g. weeping or globo-
have a short single stem (usually se) cannot be specified with all the quality
already established in the nur- requirements of an avenue tree.
sery), above which the tree can

4.4 Additional quality requirements for open-grown trees

4.4.1 Additional quality requirements can be 4.4.5 The stems of a multi-stemmed tree must be
specified in relation to crown form, crown equivalent in size and vigour.
width, number of main branches, maximum 4.4.6 The stems of a multi-stemmed tree must
height of the lowest branch, etc. As these have a good connection, without any signs of
additional quality requirements are case a weak fork (in particular with included bark).
specific, they cannot be defined in general.
4.4.2 Multi-stemmed trees are a specific type of
open-grown tree which have multiple equi-
valent stems that originate below 0.5 m
(measured above the root collar).
4.4.3 Multi-stemmed trees are not specified in
stem size classes in cm (e.g. 20/25), but in
height classes in cm (e.g. 350/400), often
including the number of stems.
4.4.4 Multi-stemmed trees must originate from
a  single tree. They cannot be the result of
planting multiple trees together.

9 National regulations apply. Figure 6: Open-grown tree with a standard well-for-

med fork.

16
 Figure 7: Open-grown tree with a weak fork with
included bark.

4.5 Additional quality requirements for park trees

4.5.1 Park trees have a single stem with a branch- branch. The minimum and maximum length
free trunk. The stem length is usually mea- depends on the size class of the tree (see
sured from the root collar to the first main table below for indicative stem lengths).

Size class8 Min. stem length [m] Max. ratio stem:crown Max. height range10 [m]

12/14 1.5 1:1 3.60–4.20

14/16 1.5 1:1 4.20–4.80

16/18 1.5 1:1 4.80–5.40

18/20 1.8 1:1 5.40–6.00

20/25 2.0 1:2 6.00–7.50

4.5.2 Trees must have a good height:stem circum-

ference ratio (slenderness), see Figure  8.
The distance (L) between the root collar
and the middle of the leader’s annual shoot
should be a maximum of 30 times the stem
circumference at 1 m (35 times is acceptab-
le for fast-growing species).

10 Measured up to ½ of the last year’s terminal

Figure 8: Representation of height:
shoot.
stem circumference ratio (slender-
ness) of a nursery tree.

17
4.6 Additional quality requirements for avenue trees
4.6.1 In addition to the quality requirements for
park trees (4.5), avenue trees must comply
with the following quality requirements.
4.6.2 The tree must have only 1 stem and only
1  dominant, perennial leader, which forms
the normal extension of the stem, according
to the natural architecture of the species.
(For an indicative list of species in each of
the categories below see Appendix 8.)
4.6.3 For tree species of category A, a straight
stem and leader must be present.
4.6.4 For tree species of category B or C, strai-
ghtness of stem and leader are not required,
but there must be clear apical dominance.
4.6.5 For tree species of category C, the slant of
the leader must not be the result of a lack of Figure 9: Tree architecture models according
strength in the stem or leader. to the basic hierarchy strategy in young trees.
4.6.6 There must be no codominant leaders or
branches, or dead, diseased or damaged
branches in the crown. For tree species in
category B or C (see Figure 9), remnants of
recurrent forks or dominated main axes are
acceptable provided they are clearly subor- 4.6.9 If the tree has been topped or lost apical
dinate to the main leader. dominance during nursery cultivation, the
4.6.7 The branches’ diameter, measured just out- apical dominance must have been restored
side the branch collar, should not exceed the before the tree is delivered.
stem diameter at the height of attachment. 4.6.10 If, as a result of the topping, a kink or a bend
4.6.8 The leader must be undamaged and should arises in the main stem or leader, this can be
not have been topped. a maximum ⅓ of the diameter (see Figure 10).

Figure 10: Acceptable (left) and non-acceptab-

le (right) forms of bend in a tree’s top.

18
4.7 Procedure for tree hand-over
4.7.1 At delivery, the client or his/her representa- 4.7.4 The nursery must give at least 5 working
tive must check if the delivered trees meet days‘ notice of delivery to allow sufficient
the quality requirements defined in the pur- time for a detailed inspection to be organi-
chase order. A preliminary selection of trees sed and carried out. Partial deliveries must
in the nursery does not replace this quality require the consent of the client.
control at delivery (but might simplify it). 4.7.5 The client or his/her representative has the
4.7.2 Quality control can be carried out on eve- authority to decide on the level of tolerance
ry individual tree or by selecting a random for minor deviations from the quality stan-
sample (for larger deliveries). dards. Trees with minor deviations might be
4.7.3 Increased attention must be paid to roots, acceptable, but only if these deviations do
root ball and root collar. Trees selected not compromise the final desired aspect of
randomly from the delivery (1 tree of each the tree. Generally, a price reduction should
group/species/type) should be carefully chec- be applied to compensate for the extra af-
ked and inspected. For trees supplied in con- tercare required to rectify any deviations
tainers or with a root ball, this might include from the quality standards.
disassembly of the root ball or container.

19
 Tree
5. Standard planting procedure Planting
Standard

5.1 Introduction
5.1.1 The following procedures are intended for
planting trees under normal conditions in
urban situations, including beside roads and
paths, in parks and related urban areas.

5.2 Time of planting

5.2.1 Bare-rooted trees and trees with a root ball 5.2.2 Planting during frost and in frozen soil is not
should be planted when the tree is in dor- recommended.
mant period. Root growth activity in gene- 5.2.3 It is not advisable to plant trees in full growth
ral occurs over a much longer period than at high temperatures.
above-ground growth.

September

November

December
February

October
January

August
March

April

June
May

July

Trees planted in Atlantic climate

Bare-rooted broadleaved trees

Broadleaved with root ball

Evergreen and conifer trees with root ball

Broadleaved, evergreen and conifer trees planted in container

Trees planted in Continental Pannonian climate zone

Bare-rooted broadleaved trees

* * *
Broadleaved with root ball

* * *
Evergreen and conifer trees with root ball

* * *
Broadleaved, evergreen and conifer trees planted in container

* * *

20
 September

November

December
February

October
January

August
March

April

June
May

July
Temperate or Mediterranean climate trees planted in Mediterranean climate
Bare-rooted broadleaved trees

Broadleaved with root ball

Evergreen and conifer trees with root ball

Broadleaved, evergreen and conifer trees planted in container

Subtropical climate trees planted in Mediterranean climate

Bare-rooted broadleaved trees

Broadleaved with root ball

Mediterranean or subtropical trees planted in subtropical climate

Bare-rooted broadleaved trees

Broadleaved with root ball

Trees planted in Nemoral or Boreal climate zone

Bare-rooted broadleaved trees

* * *
Broadleaved with root ball

* * *
Evergreen and conifer trees with root ball

* * *
Broadleaved, evergreen and conifer trees planted in container

* * *
Optimal period

* Possible period if the soil is not frozen

Possible period, but with special care

Not advisable to plant

21
5.3 Transport
5.3.1 Handling, loading and transporting trees 5.3.2 Trees with a root ball should ideally be han-
from nursery to planting site, unloading dled by the root ball. If they are gripped
trees and their storage must be carried out by the stem (just above the root ball), the
without causing any damage. Preservation stem must be protected from mechanical
of the terminal leader is of fundamental im- damage.
portance.

Figure 11: Examples of securing trees during lifting.

5.3.3 Trees should be protected from direct sun, 5.3.7 Stored trees must be watered sufficiently
wind, frost, drying out and mechanical da- (depending on the weather and cover ma-
mage. terial used) and protected from damage by
5.3.4 In particular, trees must be protected from wild animals (depending on the site).
drying, overheating or frost during trans- 5.3.8 Bare-rooted trees must be properly stored
port. or planted immediately after transport. The
5.3.5 Trees may only be shipped during frost or only exception to this is if the root systems
heatwave conditions with the consent of are protected against desiccation, and the-
the recipient. se trees must be stored or planted within 24
5.3.6 Temporary storage of trees must include hours. Trees with root balls and in containers
covering the root system with soil/mulch or must be temporarily stored or planted within
similar material. a maximum of 48 hours after transport.

22
5.4 Root management
5.4.1 When bare-rooted trees are planted, dam- they must be dipped in water, for a maxi-
aged roots must be removed or shortened. mum of one hour, before planting.
Circling/strangling roots should not be pre- 5.4.4 In container-grown trees, small roots curving
sent (see 4.2), but if a tree is accepted for along the container circumference must be
delivery in this condition, these must be re- cut in at least three places on the sides and
moved or shortened. at the bottom or by shaving the outer 2 cm
5.4.2 Roots must not be pruned unnecessarily, of the soil mass. Roots growing out of the
e.g. because they do not fit in the planting container must be removed.
pit. In such cases the planting pit must be 5.4.5 Root management should be done imme-
widened. diately prior to planting.
5.4.3 Water the tree roots properly. If roots of 5.4.6 It is not necessary to treat wounds left after
bare-rooted trees show signs of drying, root shortening.

5.5 Site and soil improvement

5.5.1 The future rootable space on the site must 5.5.10 Organic substrates. These are substrates
be properly prepared before planting. On with a predominance of organic compo-
most sites, preparation mainly involves the nents (particularly compost and composted
following: bark). They can only be used for soil impro-
- removal of persistent weeds, in- vement in the top layer, up to 50 cm depth.
cluding the parts capable of re- Compost added to the substrates must be
generation, well decomposed. Peat should not be used
- removal of undesirable materials. because of its impact on climate and habitat
5.5.2 Removal of competing vegetation before destruction.
planting is advisable. 5.5.11 Only use good-quality compost for site im-
5.5.3 A frequent problem associated with urban provements. Points to consider include:
soils is their level of compaction. There are - The composted materials and their
a  range of specialist solutions for this pro- proportion: good-quality compost
blem (see section 6). is made from a mix of natural ma-
5.5.4 The terrain should be levelled to the desired terials with high carbon content,
shape before tree planting starts. like woodchip, straw, etc., and na-
5.5.5 In good soil conditions, there is no need to tural materials with high nitrogen
replace or improve the soil in the planting pit. content, like farmyard manure,
5.5.6 When soil conditions are insufficient for fresh hay, clover, etc. Composts
sustainable tree growth, it is advisable to im- made of slurry, household green
prove the soil. In general, this means that part waste, etc. are to be avoided.
of the original soil is preserved and a  small - Good-quality compost is the pro-
percentage of new substrate is added. duct of aerobic composting. Note
5.5.7 More significant soil improvements are ne- that large-scale industrial compo-
cessary only in case of its contamination. sting may lead to anaerobic con-
5.5.8 Soil improvements are focused on structural, ditions and detrimental compo-
chemical and biological changes in the soil. nents in the end-product.
- Structural properties refer to aera- - The temperature during the first
tion of the soil and water retention. phase of the composting pro-
- Chemical properties refer to pH, cess should be well controlled,
mineral availability and similar soil avoiding excessive heat.
characteristics. - The composting process should
- Biological properties refer to nutri- be terminated before the com-
ent retention and management and post is used, so no (or only very
biological organisms that live in soil. limited) temperature increase in
5.5.9 Mineral substrates are based on sand, gra- the heap is acceptable.
vel, lava or other rock-based materials mixed - Good-quality compost must
with existing soil. These materials must not accommodate a healthy soil food
fundamentally alter the pH. web.

23
5.5.12 The compost quality can be certified or tes- 5.5.15 Water absorbents adjust the hydraulic re-
ted if appropriate. gime, increase sorption of water and nutri-
5.5.13 Chemical fertilizers should not be used, be- ents, and promote microbiological activity
cause of their impact on the soil food web in soil. They improve water management on
(mycorrhizae etc.). the site. Their use is effective primarily on
5.5.14 Other auxiliary components may be added sandy soils or on altered sites with limited
to the soil (substrate), after detailed analy- water supply.
sis, to improve the soil food web: 5.5.16 Stimulators promote root growth and acce-
- compost extract (tea), lerate the development of a new root sys-
- plant extracts, tem.
- biological nutrients,
- bacteria and fungi/mycorrhizae.

5.6 Planting pit

5.6.1 Planting into trenches is better than plan-
ting into individual pits.
5.6.2 The diameter of the planting pit must be at
least 1.5 times larger than the width of the
root system of a bare-rooted tree or the
diameter of the root ball.
5.6.3 The final volume for root development is much
larger than the planting pit. All resources must
be used to support root development from
the planting pit.
5.6.4 The depth of the planting pit depends on
the root system or root ball height. The bo-
ttom of the planting pit must be loosened.
5.6.5 In heavily compacted soils, an angular or radial
-shaped planting pit is more appropriate.
5.6.6 The shape of planting pits in sandy or medium
to heavy soils is not important.
5.6.7 In clay, loam and compacted soils the plan-
ting pit should not be augered due to the
risk of compaction of the pit wall.
5.6.8 During excavation, different soil layers must
be stored separately so that they are not
Figure 12: Minimum size of the planting pit.
mixed during planting.
5.6.9 The walls of the pit must be loosened and
must not pose an impermeable obstacle for
root development.

Figure 13: Location of the root ball in the planting pit. Figure 14: Various shapes of planting pit.

24
5.6.10 If the soil properties are not suitable, follow 5.6.12 For tree rows in paved areas, the individu-
instructions in section 5.5. al planting pits should be made larger and/
5.6.11 It is not necessary to install aeration and irri- or to connected to each other, e.g. by root
gation systems in open growing sites or if trenches, root pathways or by maximising the
the situation does not demand it. available soil volume outside the planting pits.

Figure 15: Example of an aeration system.

Figure 16: Various types of drainage systems in the planting pit.

25
5.6.13 The use of (heavy) equipment for planting staying out of planting pits and above the ro-
trees can lead to increased compaction of otable volume by using road plates or equi-
the soil, which hinders root growth or ma- valent materials. Soil compaction can easily
kes it impossible. Prevent soil compaction by occur in wet soils and in clay or peat soils.

5.7 Tree placement/planting

5.7.1 At planting, place the tree in the centre of

the planting pit.
5.7.2 The level of the root collar must be checked,
so that after planting the root collar should
be a few cm higher than the level of the
surrounding terrain. This is to avoid the root
collar sinking with natural soil settling.
5.7.3 The root collar of a tree planted on a slope
must be located at upper edge of the lower
-lying pit wall. Trees planted on a slope must
be protected from water erosion.
5.7.4 Modification of the slope above the tree and
special irrigation measures are necessary in
most cases.
5.7.5 Roots of bare-rooted trees must be evenly
spread by hand.
5.7.6 For trees with a root ball, the upper part
of the wire basket needs to be removed
or released sufficiently to allow root collar
growth.
5.7.7 At this stage the anchorage system should
be installed (see 5.8).
5.7.8 During planting, it is best to irrigate the open Figure 17: Placement of the tree into planting pit.
pit to minimise the formation of air pockets.
Irrigation must evenly saturate soil volume
throughout the planting pit.
5.7.9 Water used for the irrigation must not be
contaminated. Regenerated (recycled, gray)
water must have sufficient quality to support
healthy tree life.
5.7.10 Backfill the pit in layers and ensure that the
tree remains upright. At each stage, the
filling must be gently compacted to avoid
any open spaces under and around the root
system. Be careful not to over-compact the
soil.
5.7.11 Soil from the lower layers should be used
for backfilling in the deeper parts of the pit.
Top-layer soil should be used for backfilling
the upper levels.
5.7.12 Immediately after planting, the location
must be thoroughly irrigated.
5.7.13 Where possible, build an irrigation wall to
improve irrigation efficiency. Make sure that
water does not leak and infiltrate into the
surrounding area.
Figure 18: Planting trees on a slope.

26
5.7.14 Any interference that might damage the 5.7.15 After backfilling, the upper surface of the
root system after planting is undesirable. planting pit must be at exactly the same le-
vel as the surrounding soil. The irrigation wall
should be located just outside the outer bor-
der of the planting pit.

Figure 19: Irrigation wall around a newly

planted tree.

5.8 Anchorage systems

5.8.1 The objective of anchorage systems is to
stabilise the root system and to allow for
movement of the above-ground parts. Trees
that are 1.5 m or more in height and trees
with cultivated crowns must be firmly an-
chored during planting.
5.8.2 The type of anchorage and the size and
strength of stakes should be chosen in re-
lation to the tree’s size and the expected
duration of use on the site (e.g. road safety
requirements).
5.8.3 The anchorage system should be sufficient
to support the tree while allowing a certain
amount of trunk movement so that lateral
anchor roots can develop.
5.8.4 The anchorage system must be installed so
that the tree is not damaged by direct con-
tact, abrasion or rubbing.
5.8.5 Anchoring is usually kept in place for 2–3
growing seasons. Exceptions are plantings
of large trees or plantings on windy or
otherwise exposed sites.
5.8.6 Anchoring is typically done using 1–3 stakes
or by underground anchors and its dimensi-
ons are determined by the size of the tree.
5.8.7 Stakes used for anchoring must be debar-
ked, and preferably should not be impregna-
ted (treated with preservatives). They have
a service life of 2–3 years. Figure 20: Various types of anchorage systems using stakes.

27
5.8.8 Stakes should be installed in an open plan- 5.8.11 Consider adding one or more levels of
ting pit so as not to damage roots. Stakes battens installed on the bottom of the sys-
must be embedded below the planting pit tem to protect the lower part of the stem
bottom. against lawn mowers/grass trimmers and
5.8.9 To be stable, the tree needs stem support dog urine.
at around 50–60 cm above ground. If the 5.8.12 Ties must be secured against slipping on the
anchoring system is also designed as a me- stakes. Ties must not damage the bark or
ans of protection for the stem, or in windy hinder trunk growth. Use of ties made from
situations, it may be advisable to use higher organic materials is advisable.
stakes. 5.8.13 Underground anchors can only be used in
5.8.10 To increase the stability of systems with 3 or trees supplied with an intact root ball or with
more stakes, it is possible to join the ends of a container. Anchoring components must not
the stakes together with suitably cut semi- be in direct contact with the roots of the tree.
circular battens so that they stabilize each 5.8.14 Underground anchors must be installed in
other. the planting pit before it is backfilled.

Figure 21: Various types of underground anchorage system.

28
Figure 22: Details of an underground anchorage system.

29
5.9 Stem and crown protection
5.9.1 Consider installing adequate stem protecti-
on when planting trees with distinct trunks.
5.9.2 Protection from sun scorch is achieved usu-
ally by reed or split bamboo mats or using
jute wrapping.
5.9.3 Trunks can also be coated with white paint
to increase the reflection of sunlight (the al-
bedo of the stem). Paints should be specifi-
cally designed for the purpose or of mineral
origin (chalk, loam, clay etc.).
5.9.4 For specific tree species with thin bark
which is susceptible to sun scorch (like Fa-
gus spp. and Carpinus spp.), small twigs may
be attached to the stem to protect it from
excessive sunlight (unless specified otherwi-
se). These twigs must be distributed regular-
ly over the stem and must be stocky and not
older than 2 years.
5.9.5 In areas where planted trees are threatened
by gnawing, browsing or antler damage,
the trees must receive suitable protection.
In addition to mechanical protection (such
as sleeves, fences etc.), repellent coating or
spray is also possible. Coats or sprays must be
applied in accordance with the public health Figure 23: Examples of stem tree protections
regulations and traffic safety principles that
apply to the site.
5.9.6 In lawned areas, it is advisable to install pro-
tection against trunk damage by mowers
or grass trimmers. Maintaining a protective 5.9.7 Any trunk protection system must not da-
area around the trunk (e.g. by application of mage the tree and must be installed with
mulch) offers appropriate protection from sufficient leeway to permit trunk growth and
trunk damage by mowers. movement.

5.10 Mulching
5.10.1 It is highly advisable to mulch planted trees Grass and other fresh plant materials are not
with a layer of material of maximum 5 cm suitable, as they ferment.
depth (in dry climates and with coarse ma- 5.10.4 It is possible to use seasoned (partially de-
terial max. 10 cm). The mulch layer should be composed) mulch. However, to avoid having
kept away from immediate contact with the to move plant material (for biosecurity rea-
tree root collar. sons and to reduce carbon footprint), it can
5.10.2 Mulching materials must not damage the be better to use fresh woodchip if it is avai-
tree and their properties must not prevent lable on the site.
air and water absorption by the soil. 5.10.5 Using inorganic material as a mulch is possi-
5.10.3 For mulching the following organic mate- ble, even if it does not fulfil all the functions
rials could be used, for example: of organic mulch. It is possible to use it on si-
- bark, tes with a low risk of soil compaction. It must
- woodchips, not be used with a geotextile below.
- straw.

30
5.11 Water supply systems
5.11.1 Where possible, create a natural irrigation 5.11.3 Where required, slow-release irrigation
wall (see 5.7.13). This makes irrigation easier sacks can be used. These should be placed
by keeping the water in the rootable area. It around the trunk and then filled with water.
may offer additional protection against road The filling quantity varies depending on the
salt and mowing damage. trunk diameter of the tree. To avoid damaging
5.11.2 A constructed watering ring should have the tree’s stem, irrigation sacks can be secu-
a diameter about 1–1.5× the size of the root red around the stakes where appropriate.
ball. It should be placed around the tree and 5.11.4 In some cases, a watering system consisting
submerged to a depth of approximately 10– of in-situ irrigation pipes can be used. The
15 cm with the rest forming the watering rim irrigation pipes should be positioned around
above ground. The overlapping ends should the root ball, in the upper half of the planting
be fixed to the tree stakes to keep the wate- pit. Note that such irrigation pipes generally
ring ring stable. Watering rings should pre- can only hold a limited amount of water, ma-
ferably be made of biodegradable material. king watering time consuming or insufficient.

Figure 24: Watering ring.

5.12 Tree pruning at planting

5.12.1 Any minor damage to the above- or below- 5.12.3 Quality trees (nursery stock) should not
ground parts of the tree incurred during require pruning at the time of planting. Con-
transport can be rectified by pruning. tractors must not carry out pruning at the
5.12.2 Pruning in general follows principles descri- time of planting without a specific order.
bed in EAS 01:2021 – European Tree Pruning 5.12.4 Compensating for bad-quality nursery stock
Standard. by pruning at planting is not advisable. Such
trees do not fulfil the quality expected of
nursery stock (see section 4).

31
 Tree
6. Additional technical solutions Planting
Standard

6.0 Introduction
6.0.1 Trees should preferably be planted in areas 6.0.2 The preconditions for the use of additional
that allow open growth, without any limits technical solutions and the guidelines for
to the development of their roots. Hard their application must be defined during
surfaces should be avoided whenever possi- a  well-considered urban planning and de-
ble. However, when it is necessary to plant sign process.
trees in hard-surface surroundings, additio-
nal technical solutions can be used.

6.1 Compaction for infrastructure

6.1.1 In urban environments, subsoil is often also compacted). This measure
compacted before the installation of infra- could be accompanied by crea-
structure in order to avoid subsidence, e.g. ting small islands of good, uncom-
for roads, footpaths etc. Usually this is ca- pacted soil throughout the hard
rried out throughout the whole street pro- surface, connected by root path-
file, which makes the subsoil unsuitable for ways.
tree root growth. In order to keep the sub- - Create a network of thin trenches
soil rootable without having to use structu- (3–5 cm) in the compacted soil
ral soils or underground installations for tree after compaction. This does not
growth, the following can be implemented: really make the subsoil rootable,
- Limit compaction to the minimum but it allows small tree roots to
necessary to avoid subsidence, explore a bit more of the soil volu-
both in depth and in degree of me.
compaction. For example, the - Extend the depth of planting pits
subsoil under footpaths does not (down to 1.5 m or more), allowing
need the same depth and degree tree roots to explore deeper soil
compaction as the subsoil under layers below the artificially com-
roads used by heavy traffic roads. pacted subsoil. The success of this
- Create root pathways below the measure depends on the local soil
hard surface (see section 6.6) conditions and layers.
which can guide the tree roots to 6.1.2 Note that the above measures are most
surrounding areas (this is not po- successful in well-aerated sandy or stony
ssible if all surrounding areas are soils without high groundwater levels.

32
6.2 Structural soils
6.2.1 Structural soils are artificial soil-substitu- 6.2.3 Depending on the required load-bearing
ting substrates that combine load-carrying capacity, the matrix can consist of sand or
capacity and rootable volume. They can be crushed rock (e.g. gravel, lava or recycled
used under all hard surfaces, e.g. footpaths, materials) of differing dimensions (typically
roads and parking areas. Note that structu- between 0,2 and 15 cm, but monogranular).
ral soils allow root growth but are a compro- The material must be sufficiently hard not
mise material for use under hard surfaces to crumble under compaction and load. The
and thus they are suboptimal for root de- elements must be angular, not round, to be
velopment. For this reason, structural soils compactable.
must not be used in open planting areas. 6.2.4 The physicochemical composition of the
6.2.2 All structural substrates consist of a load matrix and its solubility can influence pH and
-bearing matrix of monogranular11 material mineral composition in the substrate. For
with voids that are filled with a soil with high this reason, a recycled material like crushed
loam/clay and organic material content to concrete is generally not suitable for making
accommodate root growth. structural soils due to its high alkalinity.

6.2.5 Sand-based structural soils are only suitab-

le for small loads (e.g. under pavements for
pedestrian use only), as they will deform
under heavy loads. Structural soils based on
crushed rock are suitable for all load cate-
gories without deformation, including heavy Figure 25: Principle of a structural soil.
traffic.
6.2.6 Structural soils must be installed according
to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Generally,
structural soils must be installed when they are
dry and compacted in layers of around 20 cm. 6.2.8 Structural soils can limit the development
Most of the volume in a structural soil (over of the large structural roots of the tree (de-
6.2.7 two-thirds) consists of the load-bearing pending on the composition). Root path-
matrix. So only about one-third of the vo- ways are therefore recommended in large
lume consists of void space suitable for root planting sites on structural soils.
growth. This means that structural soils have 6.2.9 Structural soils that are in contact with the
low efficiency: 10 m³ of structural soil is the outside air can have increased evaporation
equivalent of around 3 m³ of good-quality, rates, which could be problematic for arid
non-compacted soil. regions.

11 Materials with grains or granules of the same size.

33
6.3 Pressure distribution systems
6.3.1 Pressure distribution systems can be used 6.3.4 Pressure distribution systems can also redu-
to mitigate soil degradation under load, by ce root damage to hard surfaces by sprea-
spreading the load over a larger area and ding root pressure over a larger area.
thus lowering peak loads. 6.3.5 Hollow plastic sandwich panels can be (part-
6.3.2 Pressure distribution systems generally con- ly) filled with high-quality compost or orga-
sist of hollow plastic sandwich panels that nic soil and act as a nutrient supply for the
are linked together to form a continuous underlying (structural) soil.
layer under a hard surface.
6.3.3 When connected to the outside air, hollow
plastic sandwich panels can contribute to
soil aeration under a hard surface.

6.4 Soil cells and tree bunkers

6.4.1 Soil cells and tree bunkers are systems used 6.4.4 Concrete tree bunkers can be poured on
under hard surfaces to separate the load- site, using a lost mould made from plastic
carrying function from the tree root spa- pipes and covers in the form of a vault. This
ce. They consist of a hollow load-bearing method is more flexible than precast con-
construction that transfers the load to the crete modules and can be installed around
underlying soil and is filled with high-quality, existing trees, as the pillars can be installed
non-compacted soil which accommodates in between tree roots, using non-destructi-
tree roots. When these constructions are co- ve excavation methods.
rrectly designed and installed, they are suitable 6.4.5 Due to the settling of the non-compacted
for all load categories, including heavy traffic. soil within the construction, an air layer (ar-
6.4.2 Soil cells consist of prefabricated plastic tificial secondary ground level) forms below
elements that can be positioned and stac- the lid in these systems. This needs to be
ked to form a load-bearing construction. connected to the outside air to allow for
The (reinforced) plastic lids generally need aeration of the soil in the construction.
considerable cover in order to bear the 6.4.6 Irrigation and drainage are major points to
highest load categories. consider when designing these systems (see
6.4.3 Tree bunkers or tree boxes consist of precast Figure 26).
concrete modules that form a load-bearing
construction. They are covered with a rein-
forced concrete lid.

Figure 26: Example of installed soil cells system around a newly planted tree.

34
6.5 Root bridges
6.5.1 Root bridges or guides are systems that guide 6.5.2 Root bridges can be a local solution to an
root growth away from undesirable areas (e.g. underground problem, e.g. an individual
just below the pavement) into a more suitable structural root that damages a pavement
area (e.g. a structural substrate under the or driveway that needs to be installed in the
pavement). root area of the tree.

6.6 Root pathways

6.6.1 Root pathways under hard surfaces are used 6.6.3 When root pathways are installed in the root
to guide tree roots to a more appropriate zone of existing trees, non-destructive ex-
(open) rootable area. cavation methods must be used.
6.6.2 Root pathways are typically narrow trenches
of structural soil or plastic/concrete pipes
filled with soil which run below a hard surface.

6.7 Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS)

6.7.1 The underground rooting volume of trees 6.7.3 SUDS must be custom designed to function
in urban areas can have an important role in optimally in the given circumstances. They
urban stormwater management, for the be- must be dimensioned and designed to have
nefit of both the trees and the urban water fast permeability in order to work optimally
management system. during heavy rain events (so called T20, T30,
6.7.2 SUDS include all systems that allow for T50 events, which occur once every 20, 30
rainwater infiltration into the soil, mostly in or 50 years).
urban green spaces. An additional rainwater 6.7.4 The major point to consider when including
supply can improve tree growth. Diverting tree-growing spaces in SUDS is that the de-
rainwater to green spaces also alleviates sign and dimensioning of the system should
peak pressures on the rainwater drainage focus on avoiding too much water collecti-
or sewage system during heavy rain events, ng in the tree root volume for extended pe-
allowing these systems to be more modest riods of time. Waterlogged soils will negati-
in size. vely impact a tree’s physiological condition
and can potentially kill it.

6.8 Aeration systems

6.8.1 The installation of aeration systems might 6.8.3 Aeration systems generally get clogged with
be applicable on (urban) sites where the soil soil particles after a time and thus have a li-
surface is heavily compacted and/or paved, mited functional lifespan (typically around
to allow for sufficient gas exchange in dee- 5–10 years).
per soil levels. In open planting spaces, aera- 6.8.4 The increased aeration of the soil can also
tion systems are not necessary. cause increased desiccation. This must be
6.8.2 Aeration systems can consist of plastic aera- taken into account, especially in arid cli-
tion tubes or holes filled with gravel, reaching mates.
to the desired depth (typically around 1 m).

35
Figure 27: Example of an aeration system.

36
6.9 Grilles
6.9.1 Grilles are installed as one of the measures 6.9.3 The grilles must be fastened in a way that
to prevent soil compaction in areas with in- does not prevent roots from growing into
tensive pedestrian traffic. the surrounding soil. Grilles are usually
6.9.2 The size of the grille depends on the target mounted on beams laid on footings.
size of the planted tree. For larger trees, 6.9.4 Grilles must be sufficiently permeable for
split grilles are preferable as they allow the water and air, and must permit inspection
space for the trunk to be enlarged as the of the root area, removal of litter and tree
tree grows. care. They should allow for disassembly, but
should be secured against theft.

Figure 28: Example

of grille installation.

37
6.10 Modifications of the immediate surroundings of trees
6.10.1 Advantages and disadvantages of specific land-
scaping around planted trees are summarized
in the following overview table.12

Gravel – Resin Gravel – Self- Rubber

Criteria Characteristics Asphalt
-bound binding crumb

Permeability for air and water

to reach the rooting volume if HIGH MEDIUM HIGH LOW
correctly maintained

Flexibility of material MEDIUM HIGH HIGH MEDIUM

Risk of damaging young trees if

HIGH HIGH MEDIUM HIGH
incorrectly installed
Tree criteria
Risk of damaging established trees
LOW LOW LOW MEDIUM
if incorrectly installed

Risk of damaging young/es-

MEDIUM LOW MEDIUM MEDIUM
tablished trees if unmaintained

Potential to improve soil fertility LOW LOW LOW LOW

Suitability for installation up to the

LOW MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW
base of a young tree

Tolerance to regular pedestrian

HIGH MEDIUM LOW HIGH
traffic

Resistance to street sweeping

HIGH LOW LOW HIGH
machines/animal excavation
Site criteria
Effectiveness at suppressing weed
MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW HIGH
growth

Availability of different colours/

HIGH LOW LOW MEDIUM
styles

Suitability for installation immedia- HIGH

MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW
tely after tree planting

Likelihood of requiring a sub-base

prior to installation HIGH LOW LOW HIGH

Installation Level of experience/competence

and required to correctly install and HIGH MEDIUM LOW MEDIUM
maintenance maintain
criteria
Expected lifespan of material MEDIUM MEDIUM LOW HIGH

Whole-life cost of material,

including purchase, installation, HIGH MEDIUM LOW LOW
maintenance and disposal

POSITIVE

NEGATIVE

12 LTOA 2015, Surface materials around trees in hard landscapes,

London Tree Officers Association, London.

38
6.11 Root barriers
6.11.1 Root barriers are systems that stop roots 6.11.3 Installation of root barriers all around the
from growing into a particular area. circumference of a tree at close proximity
6.11.2 Root barriers can be used for one-sided pre- is not advisable as this will compromise the
vention of root growth (e.g. towards under- tree’s future stability.
ground utility lines). They must be installed
at a sufficient distance from the tree so that
they will not impact (future) tree stability.

6.12 Car protection

6.12.1 Car protection systems are used in areas 6.12.3 Any restriction on the rootable volume
where vehicles pass and park close to trees. should be minimised. Car protection sys-
6.12.2 Any car protection system must be installed tems should be installed near an existing
so as not to damage the tree (including its tree only after careful root inspection and
root system) and must allow for future tree in a way that avoids substantial root damage.
growth. The system must be anchored suffi-
ciently, outside of the planting pit.

6.13 Planting in waterlogged soils

6.13.1 When it is impossible or undesirable to im-
prove the hydrology of the site, it is advisa-
ble to only use tree species that are tolerant
to waterlogged soils and high groundwater
levels rather than relying on drainage (which
generally has a limited functional lifespan).13
6.13.2 To aid establishment of a young tree, it can
be planted above the soil level, in a raised
planting pit. This creates slightly dryer local
conditions for the tree to get settled and
avoids the root ball being waterlogged.

13 For example Populus (section Nigra), Figure 29: Example of planting a tree on a waterlogged site.
Salix, Alnus, Taxodium, Metasequoia etc.

39
 Tree
7. Post-planting tree care Planting
Standard

7.0 Introduction
7.0.1 Completion management proceeds from continues throughout the tree’s further
planting to handover and acceptance by the growth until it becomes fully functional.
contracting authority. 7.0.3 Development management is followed by
7.0.2 Development management proceeds from standard tree management, which is provi-
handover and focuses on minimising post ded throughout the tree’s life.
-transplant shock. In a reduced form, this

7.1 Inspection and removal of anchoring and protection

7.1.1 Above-ground anchoring systems must be 7.1.3 Shading mats are usually removed after 2 ye-
inspected at least once a year for at least ars; they can be left for longer period in jus-
2 years. Inspection includes repairs or ad- tified cases (e.g. along roads with chemical
justments to prevent damage to the trunk winter maintenance regimes).
and to ensure optimal functioning. Ancho- 7.1.4 Protection from browsing, gnawing and
ring is usually removed within 3 years. antler damage should be maintained for lon-
7.1.2 Trunk protection should be inspected at least ger (until the tree produces a coarser bark),
once a year. It should be repaired and loose- particularly in sensitive tree species such as
ned. Coating and spraying against browsing apples (Malus spp.).
damage should be renewed annually.

7.2 Tree pruning

7.2.1 Pruning interventions, where required, shou- 7.2.2 The focus and scope of pruning interventi-
ld not start until at least 1–2 growing seasons ons are defined by EAS 01:2021 – European
after planting. Tree Pruning Standard.

7.3 Water supply

7.3.1 The irrigation wall must be maintained for 7.3.4 Irrigation must be adjusted to the climatic con-
at least 2 years, or throughout the irrigation ditions, the site (e.g. the effect of site exposure
period. to wind or sunshine), current weather, the size
7.3.2 Irrigation should be provided for the period of tree planted, soil moisture, date of execution
required to minimise post-transplant shock.14 (some species require abundant watering be-
This rule does not apply to extreme sites, fore winter) and taxon-specific requirements.
where specific conditions dictate provision of Higher-frequency irrigation is needed in the
irrigation until proper rooting takes place. In first year; frequency decreases in the following
some cases (e.g. sites without a connection years. Some trees need to be irrigated in the
between the root volume and natural ground), summertime for the first 3–5 years.
irrigation will be required throughout the en- Water should penetrate the depth of the roo-
tire existence of the tree on the site. 7.3.5 table volume (depending on tree size) throu-
7.3.3 Soil moisture should be checked before irri- ghout the planting pit. This must be reflected
gation. in the quantity of water in each water delivery.

14 The length of the post-transplant shock can be determined approximately as 1 year per 8 cm of trunk circumference
(rounded upwards).

40
7.4 Weeding
7.4.1 Weeds are natural plants which can be im- 7.4.3 In mechanical weeding, undesirable plants are:
portant for site biodiversity and phyto- - plucked,
pathology. If necessary, weeding is done to - the above-ground portion is sepa-
remove undesirable plants from the planting rated from the roots by hoeing,
area. - the weeds are mowed.
7.4.2 Weeding should be done using purely me- 7.4.4 The work must always be carried out care-
chanical removal methods. Chemical wee- fully to avoid damage to the root collar or
ding is not advisable. the roots of the tree.

7.5 Protection against pests and diseases

7.5.1 The overall condition of the trees must be 7.5.2 If any symptoms of pest/disease infestation
regularly inspected during the growing pe- are detected, the organism must be identi-
riod. fied and adequate measures must be taken,
depending on its type and the degree of
threat it poses.

7.6 Mulch replenishment

7.6.1 Natural products (particularly of organic 7.6.2 Mulch replenishment up to the original level
origin) used for mulching gradually decom- should be carried out once a year, ideally at
pose and should be replenished during post- the beginning of the growing season.
planting care.

41
 Tree
8. Palm tree planting Planting
Standard

8.1 Palm tree specifics

8.1.1 Palms have an adventitious root system 8.1.3 Palms planted as street trees must have
composed of numerous fibrous primary adequate trunk height to allow the leaves to
roots with little branching. These roots arise reach over the required clearance (normally
continuously from the root initiation zone > 3.5 m).
at the base of stem. 8.1.4 Palms should not be planted in a container,
8.1.2 For most species, a root ball of 30 cm radi- except in special cases where temporary
us (off the stem) and 30 cm deep is adequa- planting in a container is acceptable (for up
te for small palms. Big palms (trunk height to 6 months).
>  1.5  m) need a deeper root ball (normally 8.1.5 The stem diameter of a palm tree depends
> 80–100 cm) and a radius of 30 cm from on its physiology. Temporary reduction in
the surface of the trunk. Above a certain vitality results in a portion of the trunk with
height (1 m of trunk) the root ball size does a smaller diameter. Nursery conditions must
not increase with the height; palm crowns are be appropriate to develop the full stem dia-
constant so the root ball can be the same. meter, depending on palm species.

8.2 Palm planting procedure

8.2.1 The small size and weight of a palm’s root the meristematic tissues, palm leaves must
ball offers no means of lifting by the ball. remain attached.
Palms are transported by a strap or sling 8.2.5 For field-dug palms, some or all fronds can
placed on the trunk just above the estima- be removed before transport to reduce
ted balance point. Adequate padding must transpirational water loss. Especially for sabal
be used. Palms are commonly planted at palm (Sabal palmetto), this improves survival
larger sizes than normal trees. of planted trees.
8.2.2 For most palm species, 5 cm of root initia- 8.2.6 Large palms should be supported by props
tion zone (often visible as a portion of the or guys after planting. No nails, screws or
trunk, where roots form above ground) mechanical devices may be inserted into the
should remain above the soil surface. Some trunk.
palms make adventitious roots higher than 8.2.7 Palms have similar planting requirements to
the collar. These roots should not be buried. trees. Plantations (nurseries) must let palms
8.2.3 In sandy soils (aerobic conditions) palms can to grow normally as fast as possible, becau-
be planted at varying depths to level crown se existence of periods with limited growing
heights. However, in normal soils (not sandy), conditions implies that trunk cannot reach
palms are very sensitive to anaerobic condi- the normal diameter. This affects the future
tions and deeply planted palm trees can die stability of palms (specially in Phoenix dacty-
(or struggle). Also, specific fungi (Thielaviop- lifera).
sis sp.) can affect palm wood and cause their 8.2.8 Palms come from different climate zones.
static failure years later. Planting must respect the palm’s ecological
8.2.4 It is not necessary to remove fronds from zoning.
container-grown palms at planting. Careful 8.2.9 Planting operations must be carried out du-
protection of the terminal bud is essential. ring the period with high temperatures (April
To prevent frost damage or desiccation of to August/September).

42
 Figure 30: Example of supporting a palm tree.

43
APPENDICES

9.1 Appendix 1: List of trees and tree-formed shrubs tolerant of alkaline soils
(above pH 7)

Latin name Common name

Acer campestre Field maple

Amygdalus communis (Prunus amygdalus) Almond
Armeniaca vulgaris (Prunus armeniaca) Tibetan apricot
Calocedrus decurrens Incense cedar
Carpinus betulus Common hornbeam
Cedrus atlantica Atlas cedar
Cedrus libani Lebanon cedar
Cerasus avium (Prunus avium) Wild cherry
Cerasus mahaleb (Prunus mahaleb) Mahaleb cherry
Cornus mas European cornel
Cupressocyparis × leylandii Leyland cypress
Elaeagnus angustifolia Russian olive
Fagus sylvatica European beech
Fraxinus excelsior Common ash
Fraxinus ornus Manna ash
Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo
Juglans regia Persian walnut
Koelreuteria paniculata Varnish tree
Laburnum anagyroides Common laburnum
Larix decidua European larch
Morus alba White mulberry
Morus nigra Black mulberry
Ostrya carpinifolia European hop-hornbeam
Paulownia tomentosa Foxglove tree
Picea omorika Bosnian spruce
Pinus heldreichii Bosnian pine
Pinus nigra Black pine
Pinus ponderosa Western yellow pine
Platanus × hispanica London planetree
Platycladus orientalis (Thuja orientalis) Oriental arborvitae
Populus alba Silver poplar
Populus simonii Simon poplar
Pyrus pyraster European wild pear
Quercus frainetto Hungarian oak
Quercus pubescens Downy oak
Rhamnus cathartica Common buckthorn
Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust
Salix alba White willow
Salix babylonica Weeping willow
Salix daphnoides European violet willow
Sophora japonica Japanese pagoda tree

44
 Latin name Common name

Sorbus aria Common whitebeam

Tamarix spp. Tamarisk
Taxus baccata European yew
Tilia platyphyllos Large-leaved lime
Ulmus glabra Wych elm
Ulmus laevis Spreading elm
Ulmus minor Field elm

References:
HURYCH, Václav. Okrasné dřeviny pro zahrady a parky. 2., upr. a rozš. vyd. Praha: Květ, 2003. ISBN 80-85362-46-5.
KOBLÍŽEK, Jaroslav. Jehličnaté a listnaté dřeviny našich zahrad a parků. 2., rozš. vyd. Tišnov: Sursum, 2006. ISBN
80-7323- 117-4.

45
9.2 Appendix 2: List of trees and tree-formed shrubs tolerant of acidic
soils (below pH 4)

Latin name Common name

Abies alba European silver fir

Abies grandis Grand fir
Abies homolepis Nikko fir
Abies koreana Korean fir
Abies nordmanniana Caucasian fir
Abies procera Noble fir
Abies veitchii Veitch’s fir
Acer saccharinum Silver maple
Betula pendula Silver birch
Betula pubescens Downy birch
Castanea sativa Sweet chestnut
Chamaecyparis nootkatensis Nootka cypress
Chamaecyparis pisifera Sawara cypress
Juniperus chinensis Chinese juniper
Juniperus communis Common juniper
Juniperus virginiana Virginian juniper
Larix sibirica Siberian larch
Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip tree
Magnolia spp. Magnolia
Nyssa sylvatica Black tupelo
Padus avium (Prunus padus) European bird cherry
Picea abies Norway spruce
Picea glauca White spruce
Picea mariana Black spruce
Picea sitchensis Sitka spruce
Pinus banksiana Jack pine
Pinus cembra Swiss pine
Pinus koraiensis Korean pine
Pinus parviflora Japanese white pine
Pinus sylvestris Scots pine
Pinus uncinata ssp. uliginosa Mountain pine
Populus tremula Quaking aspen
Pseudolarix amabilis (P. kaempferi) Golden larch
Quercus palustris Pin oak
Quercus rubra Northern red oak
Salix pentandra Bay willow
Sciadopitys verticillata Japanese umbrella-pine
Sorbus aucuparia Mountain ash
Taxodium distichum Swamp cypress
Tsuga canadensis Eastern hemlock
Tsuga heterophylla Western hemlock

References:
HURYCH, Václav. Okrasné dřeviny pro zahrady a parky. 2., upr. a rozš. vyd. Praha: Květ, 2003. ISBN 80-85362-46-5.
KOBLÍŽEK, Jaroslav. Jehličnaté a listnaté dřeviny našich zahrad a parků. 2., rozš. vyd. Tišnov: Sursum, 2006. ISBN
80-7323-117-4.

46
9.3 Appendix 3: List of tree species sensitive to salinity

Latin name Common name

Abies spp. Fir

Acer negundo Ash-leafed maple
Acer pensylvanicum Striped maple
Acer platanoides Norway maple
Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore
Acer rubrum Red maple
Acer saccharinum Silver maple
Acer saccharum Sugar maple
Aesculus × carnea Red horse chestnut
Aesculus hippocastanum Horse chestnut
Alnus spp. Alder
Betula spp. Birch
Carpinus betulus Common hornbeam
Castanea sativa Sweet chestnut
Catalpa bignonioides Southern catalpa
Cedrus atlantica Atlas cedar
Cercidiphyllum japonicum Katsura tree
Cercis canadensis Judas tree
Cornus mas Cornelian cherry
Corylus colurna Turkish hazel
Chamaecyparis spp. Cypress
Crataegus laevigata Midland hawthorn
Crataegus × lavallei Hybrid cockspur thorn
Crataegus monogyna Single-seeded hawthorn
Fagus sylvatica European beech
Juglans spp. Walnut
Laburnum × watereri ‚Vosii‘ Voss’s laburnum
Larix decidua European larch
Liquidambar styraciflua American sweetgum
Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip tree
Magnolia spp. Magnolia
Malus spp. Apple
Mespilus germanica Common medlar
Metasequoia glyptostroboides Dawn redwood
Morus alba White mulberry
Picea spp. Spruce
Pinus cembra Swiss pine
Pinus peuce Macedonian pine
Pinus strobus Weymouth pine
Pinus sylvestris Scots pine
Pinus uncinata Mountain pine
Platanus × hispanica London plane
Populus balsamifera Balsam poplar
Populus nigra Black poplar

47
 Latin name Common name

Populus simonii Simon poplar

Populus tremula Quaking aspen
Prunus spp. Plum
Pseudotsuga menziesii Douglas fir
Quercus rubra Northern red oak
Sorbus spp. Rowan
Taxodium distichum Swamp cypress
Taxus baccata European yew
Thuja spp. Arborvitae
Tilia spp. Lime
Tsuga canadensis Eastern hemlock
Ulmus glabra Wych elm

References:
HURYCH, Václav. Okrasné dřeviny pro zahrady a parky. 2., upr. a rozš. vyd. Praha: Květ, 2003. ISBN 80-85362-46-5.
KOBLÍŽEK, Jaroslav. Jehličnaté a listnaté dřeviny našich zahrad a parků. 2., rozš. vyd. Tišnov: Sursum, 2006. ISBN
80-7323-117-4.

9.4 Appendix 4: List of invasive tree species15

Regulation (EU) No 1143/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 22 October 2014 on the pre-
vention and management of the introduction and spread of invasive alien species.

Acacia saligna
Ailanthus altissima
Prunus serotina

15 National/regional regulations apply.

48
9.5 Appendix 5: Minimum rootable volumes required for trees

Minimal rooting volume Minimal rooting volume

Expected turnaround
Tree size class in normal soil, with in normal soil, without
time (age)
groundwater contact16 groundwater contact16

Tree > 16 m height 80–120 years 40 m³ 70 m³

60 years 30 m³ 50 m³

40 years 20 m³ 35 m³

20 years 10 m³ 20 m³

Tree 8-16 m height 60 years 25 m³ 40 m³

40 years 12 m³ 25 m³

20 years 7 m³ 15 m³

Tree < 8 m height not defined 10 m³ 20 m³

Pollard tree not defined 5 m³ 8 m³

Table: Indicative minimum tree rootable volumes for normal soil. (For poor soil or structural soil, the minimum rootable
volumes must be raised according to the equivalent mineral and water holding capacity of the substrate.)

16 Groundwater contact refers to a situation where a tree can access the groundwater table for the entire growing season
(groundwater table typically between 1 and 2 meters below ground), so water is not a limiting factor for its growth.
Without groundwater contact, a tree must rely on the water holding capacity of the soil, making water a limiting factor
for its growth. The required soil volume is larger in this situation.

49
9.6 Appendix 6: List of tree species (examples) according to expected
crown size in maturity

Large-crown tree species (>16 m height)

Acer platanoides Norway maple

Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore
Acer saccharinum Silver maple
Aesculus hippocastanum European horse chestnut
Cedrus libani Lebanon cedar
Celtis occidentalis Hackberry
Fagus sylvatica European beech
Fraxinus excelsior Common ash
Juglans cinerea Butternut
Juglans nigra Eastern black walnut
Liquidambar styraciflua Sweetgum
Platanus spp. Plane tree
Quercus spp. Oak
Salix alba White willow
Ulmus spp. Elm

Medium-crown tree species (8–16 m height)

Abies spp. Fir

Acer negundo Ash-leafed maple (Box Elder)
Aesculus x flava Yellow buckeye
Alnus glutinosa Black alder
Betula pendula Silver birch
Catalpa ovata Chinese catalpa
Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo tree
Phellodendron amurense Amur cork tree
Picea abies Norway spruce
Pinus spp. Pine
Robinia pseudoacacia Black locust
Sorbus domestica Service tree
Tilia spp. Lime

Small-crown tree species (<8 m height)

Abies veitchii Veitch’s silver-fir

Chamaecyparis pisifera Sawara cypress
Juniperus spp. Juniper
Malus spp. Apple tree
Picea mariana Black spruce
Sorbus spp. Whitebeam
Thuja occidentalis White cedar

References:
HURYCH, Václav. Okrasné dřeviny pro zahrady a parky. 2., upr. a rozš. vyd. Praha: Květ, 2003. ISBN 80-85362-46-5.
KOBLÍŽEK, Jaroslav. Jehličnaté a listnaté dřeviny našich zahrad a parků. 2., rozš. vyd. Tišnov: Sursum, 2006. ISBN 80-
7323-117-4.

50
 9.7 Appendix 7: Relationship of Proctor density to bulk density of soils

Proctor Density

100%
85% Density where root growth is affected
80%

2.2

2.1

2.0

1.9
Bulk density (g/cm3)

1.8

1.7

1.6

1.5

1.4

1.3
Well-Graded

Well-Graded

Well-Graded

Leam Sandy
Sandy Loam

Sandy Loam
Loamy Sand

Heavy Clay
Clay Loam

Silty Clay
Medium-

Silty Clay
Graded

Loam

Loam
Loam
Sand

Clay
Silt

Urban, J.: Up by Roots: Healthy Soils and Trees in the Built Environment, International Society of Arboriculture, 2008,
ISBN: 1881956652

51
9.8 Appendix 8: Indicative list of tree species according to strategy model

Strategy model A Strategy model B Strategy model C

Abies spp. Acer saccharinum Acer pensylvanicum

Acer pseudoplatanus Acer saccharum Albizia julibrissin
Aesculus spp. Ailanthus altissima Carpinus spp.
Alnus spp. Fraxinus pennsylvanicum Fagus spp.
Betula spp. Quercus robur Gleditsia triacanthos
Castanea sativa Morus spp.
Fraxinus excelsior Nothofagus antarctica
Juglans spp. Phellodendron amurense
Liriodendron tulipifera Pterocarya fraxinifolia
Pinus spp. Robinia pseudoacacia
Platanus spp. Tilia spp.
Populus spp. Toona sinensis
Prunus avium Tsuga canadensis
Salix alba Ulmus spp.
Zelkova serrata

52
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55
ABBREVIATIONS

CE Conformité Européenne (administrative marking that indicates conformity with health, safety,
and environmental protection standards for products sold within the European Economic Area)
EAC European Arboricultural Council
EAS European Arboricultural Standards
ETT European Tree Technician
ETW European Tree Worker
EU European Union
ISA International Society of Arboriculture
pH potential of hydrogen (pondus hydrogenii)
PPE personal protective equipment
SSRA Site-specific Risk Assessment
SUDS Sustainable urban drainage systems
TeST Technical Standards in Treework

56
© Working group TeST – Technical Standards in Tree Work, 2022

ČSOP Sokolská 1095,

Arboristická 280 02 Kolín 2 www.arboristickaakademie.cz
akademie Czech Republic

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Instytut
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Haus der Landschaft

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Lange Uitweg 27
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SIA LABIE KOKI Babītes pag., Babītes nov.,
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eksperti LV-2107
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Arboricultural LT-03100 Vilnius, www.arboristai.lt
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57