A national campaign is being led by the Arboricultural Association and Woodland Trust calling on residents to water trees in residential areas, parks, public and community areas to survive the hot months by watering them.
The call has been taken up by South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, which warns that last year, the UK saw its hottest year on record, and the last few days have been scorchers. And the Met Office warning that longer, more intense heatwaves will become more frequent because of climate change.
Newly-planted street trees need up to 50 litres of water every week during the summer during their first three years.
Portfolio Holders for Conservation at South & East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership, Councillor Sarah Sharpe said: “It is so important that we support this campaign and all do our bit to help nature. Trees cool our towns and villages and improve air quality, so we must take care of our trees.”
Councillor colleague Tom Ashton added: “New trees that were planted in the winter will not yet have an established root system so they need more help than any. Watering them can be a fun activity to do with your children or even as a chore in your daily routine.
“It can also encourage a sense of community spirit with neighbours coming together to care for their local trees.”
Councillor Elizabeth Sneath added: “In a united effort, we urge all our residents across the south and east Lincolnshire to join forces and rally together watering our local street trees and save them. You don’t have to use fresh clean water you can use recycled water collected from a water butt maybe, or grey water which is left from your pot washing or bathing.
“Let’s ensure we keep our trees healthy for the future and give them the hydration they desperately need.”
