a guide to growing ireland’s native trees in … · ireland’s native trees in celebration of a...

sponsored by

Ancillary programme sponsored by

managed by in partnership with

The People’s Millennium Forests is the largest ever project in Irelanddirected at the expansion and enhancement of our native woodlands.With the support of the AIB, the National Millennium Committeeand the Forest Service of the Department of the Marine and NaturalResources, 16 forests have been restored to their former glory in aproject managed by Coillte in partnership with Woodlands of Ireland.Over fifteen hundred acres of native Irish woodland have beendesignated as 'People’s Millennium Forets' and will be dedicated inperpetuity to the people of Ireland. The forests include newly plantedareas using native Irish seed and the restoration of native woodlandsthat have been in existence for at least 200 years and probably longer.A native tree has been planted on behalf of every household in Irelandand the forest will form a lasting legacy for all to enjoy.

This edition for the Tree Council of Ireland was sponsored by the Woodlands of Ireland

A GUIDE TO GROWINGIRELAND’S NATIVE TREES

IN CELEBRATION OF A NEWMILLENNIUM

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Our TreesA guide to growing Ireland’s native trees in

celebration of a new Millennium

managed by in partnership with

Ancillary programme sponsored by

This edition for the Tree Council of Ireland was sponsoredby the Woodlands of Ireland

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Our Trees – A guide to growing Ireland’s native trees from seed ispublished in conjunction with the People’s Millennium Forests project.This project is the largest ever undertaken to restore native woodlands,and is sponsored by the National Millennium Committee and AIB bank,with the ancillary programme sponsored by the Forest Service of theDepartment of the Marine and Natural Resources. This book isbased on ‘Our Trees: A Guide to growing Northern Ireland’s NativeTrees’, compiled and edited by the late Dinah Browne and published byConservation Volunteers, Northern Ireland, on behalf of the NorthernIreland Trees of Time and Place Group. The original book was compiledwith technical information from the CVNI tree nursery at the ClandeboyeEstate, Co. Down, and Neville McKee, Ulster Native Trees. The NorthernIreland Forest Service, Forestry Commission GB, and British Trust forConservation Volunteers also supplied information.

This edition was revised and edited by Dr. Marian Coll with help andadvice from the following:

John McLoughlin, Dr. Declan Little, Dr. Aileen Sullivan, Mick Doyle,and Pat Doody and Monica Murphy of the Coillte Nursery, Ballintemple.Special thanks to the late Dinah Browne who took time out to commenton our revisions, and to Mike Hartwell for all his help and wonderfulphotographs.

©The People’s Millenium Forests, 2000

Reprinted 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2008

ISBN 0-9518612-5-5

Acorns being transported to the Coillte nursery at Ballintemple, Co.Carlow. 900,000 acorns were collected on behalf of the People’sMillennium Forests in the autumn of 1999.

Contents

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Foreword 5

Introduction 6

Trees of ecological importance 7

Our woodland heritage 9

Chapter 1 The collection, storage, & sowing of seedSeed collection 13Storage 13Long term storage 14Stratification 14Maceration 14Seed extraction 15Sowing 15

Chapter 2 TreesAlder 17Arbutus 18Ash/Aspen 19Birch, Downy and Silver 20Cherry, Bird 21Cherry, Wild 22Crab apple 23Elm 24Hazel 25Holly 26Oak, Sessile 27Oak, Pedunculate 28Rowan 29Scots Pine 30Whitebeam 31Willow 32Yew 33

Chapter 3 ShrubsBlackthorn 35

Bramble/Broom 36Buckthorn, Purging and Alder 37Dog Rose 38Elder 39Gorse 40Guelder Rose 41Hawthorn 42Honeysuckle/Ivy 43Juniper 44Spindle 45

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Contents continued

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Chapter 4 Growing trees and shrubsSetting up a small tree nursery 47Small scale tree rearing 47Larger scale 48Choosing the site 48Site preparation 48Planting seed 49Dibbling 49Broadcasting 49Lining out 49Root pruning 50Looking after your seedlings 50Growing from cuttings 51

Chapter 5 Planting 52When and how to plant 53Where to plant your trees 54Care of young trees 54Planning your woodland 55Tree shelters and pests 56Record keeping 56

Sources of furtherwritten information 59

Useful addresses & information 59 - 60

Glossary 61-62

Charts of information 63 - 72

Foreword

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The People’s MillenniumForests is the largest everproject in Ireland directed atthe expansion andenhancement of our nativewoodlands.Once an intimate part of ourculture, Ireland’s nativewoodlands are now in dangerof becoming a lost legacy andthis project is the firstsignificant attempt to redresscenturies of overexploitationand neglect. Up to sixthousand years ago nativeforests of oak, ash, elm, birch,pine, alder and hazel treesflourished across Ireland’slandscape. By 1900, less thanone percent of thesewoodlands remained, andalthough progress has beenmade in restoring forest cover,Ireland stands today as oneof the least wooded countriesin Europe.The native woodlands thatremain are important havensfor our native flora and faunaas well as being a potentialtimber resource for the future.They require carefulmanagement to protect themfrom overgrazing and thespread of non-native plants.It is widely recognised thatthere is an urgent need forfocused action that will workto protect, restore and expandour valuable native woodlandresource.

Concerted action needs toinvolve a range of both publicand private bodies andindividuals, to ensure that ournative woodlands aremaintained in a viable andsustainable condition into thenew millennium.With the support of the AIB,the National MillenniumCommittee and the ForestService of the Department ofthe Marine and NaturalResources, 16 forests havebeen restored to their formerglory in a project managed byCoillte in partnership withWoodlands of Ireland. Overfifteen hundred acres of nativeIrish woodland have beendesignated as 'People'sMillennium Forests' and willbe dedicated in perpetuity tothe people of Ireland. Theforests include newly plantedareas using native Irish seedand the restoration of nativewoodlands that have been inexistence for at least 200 yearsand probably longer. A nativetree has been planted onbehalf of every household inIreland and the forests willform a lasting legacy for all toenjoy. You can find out moreabout this project on our website:www.millenniumforests.com.

This book is designedspecifically as part of thisproject, as an aid to thosewho wish to learn moreabout growing native treesfrom seed. In the preparationof this guide, I would like toacknowledge especially thesupport of the late DinahBrowne who compiled theoriginal book for CVNI andDr. Marian Coll, OutreachOfficer, the People’sMillennium Forests, for herwork on this edition.

John McLoughlinProject ManagerThe People’s Millennium Forests

Introduction

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There are many reasons whywe want to plant and growtrees. For their conservationand timber value, their beauty,for their value in thelandscape, for shade andshelter, in general for thepleasure they give us.Trees are our largest greenplants, and play a vital role inthe natural world. Theysupport a multitude of otherlife forms such as mammals,birds, insects and plants. Theyalso provide a clean air servicefor us, filtering pollutants andabsorbing carbon dioxidefrom the atmosphere aroundus, all of which come fromsources such as the burning

of wood, coal, oil, gas, petrol,etc. In addition, powerstations and manufacturingprocesses pour carbon dioxideinto the air.All plants use energy fromsunlight to combine thisatmospheric carbon dioxidewith water, absorbed throughtheir roots, in the process ofphotosynthesis. This chemicalreaction produces thecarbohydrates and proteins bywhich plants grow. As a by-product, it releases oxygen -literally the breath of life thatwe use in respiration.Trees may bring a touch ofthe country into cities. Theymay soften the harsh outlines

of commercial buildings,reduce traffic noise, filter outdust in the atmosphere,enhance our parks andgardens.Tree conservation is not onlyabout individual trees buteven more about conservingwoodlands. Trees are anintegral part of the naturalworld and even a solitary treemay support a wide range ofwildlife. However, the greatestconservation value is in longestablished woodlands ofnative species. A whole rangeof plants and animals haveevolved to live in woodlandand literally cannot survivewithout their tree cover.Ever since our ancestorsstarted to clear land for homesand farmsteads, trees havebeen felled. They haveprovided fuel, fencing,charcoal, building material forhouses and ships. Risinghuman populations, moreintensive agriculture, growthof towns and roads, have allcaused increasing loss of trees.By the turn of the last century,less than one percent ofIreland’s native woodlandsremained.It is up to all of us to replaceand increase tree numbers. Itis not difficult, can be greatfun and is very rewarding.The trees provide their ownseed, which anyone can collectand grow. You just need tofollow some simple guidelines,as you would with any otherseed.

Native Irish oak seedlings, grown in Coillte's nursery in Aughrim, Co. Wicklow,ready to be planted in the People's Millennium Forests.

Trees of EcologicalImportance

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Mistlethrush

Acorns being planted by schoolchildren atCoillte’s nursery in Aughrim, Co Wicklow.

Much emphasis is put byconservationists on the use of“native species” as opposed tothe use of species from othercountries in the managementof the countryside for wildlife.Why bother with thedistinction? Does it reallymatter what we plant? Tounderstand the question andto be able to formulate ananswer we need to look backin history for a moment....tounderstand what is meant bya native species and why froma conservation point of viewthis is something importantto understand.

NATIVESToday, none of our nativewoodlands have remaineduntouched by humaninfluence and all are nowconsidered to be semi-natural.They are composed primarilyor wholly of local nativespecies of trees and shrubsthat are derived from naturalregeneration, coppicing orfrom mature plantations.Often managed and nearlyalways influenced by humanactivities such as grazing,most of these woodlands arerelatively recent in origin,established by naturalcolonisation in the last fewdecades, whilst some aremuch older, ancient semi-natural woodlands.Native tree species aregenerally seen to be thosespecies that managed to arrivein a location naturally,without any human

intervention whilst those thathave been introduced are seenas distinct from the naturalvegetation. In Ireland, ournative vegetation iscomparatively young, for15,000 years ago most of theland surface had just beenreleased from the grip of thelast ice age and was beginningto recover as the temperatureswarmed up. If we could havestood anywhere in Ireland forthe next 2,000 years we wouldhave seen an ever changingscene, with advancing wavesof plants and animalsmigrating back into Irelandfrom the warmer parts ofEurope over the land that laterbecame drowned under theEnglish channel and Irish Sea.The south-west of Ireland wasalso linked to Brittany by alandbridge, which wassubsequently submerged. Thefirst woody plants to appear,hardly big enough to be calledtrees, colonised the grasslandsand lake edges that haddeveloped over the poorlydeveloped soils and gravelsleft behind by the ice.Today, these first plants, dwarfwillows and junipers, nowhang on only in places wherethe environment makes itdifficult for other taller treesto grow, such as the Burren,or on mountain cliffs. Overmuch of the country theywere rapidly crowded out bytaller birches, willows, aspensand bird cherry whenwoodland as we know it

started to establish itself. Thisin its turn was swamped onthe drier ground by a greatwave of hazel, which by 9,000years ago covered Ireland fromend to end. These rapidlyspreading trees relied on theproduction of vast quantitiesof seed dispersed by wind, asis the case of willows andbirch, or animals as in the caseof hazel. They could alsoproduce the seed when theywere relatively young, unlikethe big forest trees such asoak. However, the longer livedhigh forest trees eventuallyarrived, so that by 8,000 yearsago pine dominated on thewestern sea board, oaks onthe drier, free draining acidsoils (sessile oak) and heavierlowland clays (pedunculateoak), whilst ash and wych elmflourished where the soil wasmore alkaline over the majorcentral parts of Ireland. Inwetter and boggy areas, alderand birch were dominant.Apart from the wetlands,woodland covered most ofIreland.

7,000 years ago, thelandbridges were flooded andIreland became an island,halting the arrival of furthertree species. Some species thatgrow well here are regardedas native to Britain andcontinental Europe but cannot be considered to be nativeto Ireland.

Beech is one; limes, fieldmaples and hornbeams areothers.

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During the re-colonisation ofthe land by woodland, all theother components of whatmakes a woodland a verycomplex community of plantsand animals spread withthem. Each species of treecarried with it a baggage ofsnails, insects, lichens, birdsand fungi as well as herbs andplants that grew in its shadeand in the soil it created.Insects, in particular, formvery complex webs of life,with things that eat leaves,buds, flowers, roots, thenthings that eat those, orparasitise them. All thesemake good food in their turnfor birds, mice and othermammals. It is not surprisingthen to realise that trees suchas oak and willows havedeveloped a large number ofinsects that feed only on them,over 450 species. Birchessupport over 300, and alder,elm and hazel over 100 each.They are therefore supportinga wide range of wildlife intheir own right.

SPECIES FROM OTHERPLACESOver the last few hundredyears, many different speciesof trees and shrubs have beenintroduced into Ireland,familiar species such asbeech, horse chestnut andsycamore. Although thesetrees have become a familiarand much loved part of ourlandscape, they are notnatives and as such do notsupport as wide a variety of

native insects. For example,beech supports 98 species,whilst sycamore supportsonly 43. They are bothbeautiful trees but thechances are that only a smallamount of the associatedbaggage arrived with them.So generally speaking speciesfrom other places definitelydo not support such adiversity of other wildlife asdo native species. Inaddition, both beech andsycamore cast very denseshade and are in leaf for amuch longer season than thenative species, which kills offmost of the Irish woodlandflowers with the exceptionof bluebells. They can alsoout compete native trees,thereby excluding them fromthe forest communityaltogether.For this reason the People’sMillennium Forests projectconcentrates solely on thenatural regeneration andplanting of native tree andshrub species. Forestscomprising only native specieswill support a wider varietyof our native flora and faunathan those made up ofintroduced trees.

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Our native tree species havebeen linked with Irish cultureand society from the earliesttimes. Trees were of thegreatest importance, not onlyfor the obvious practicalreasons but also for spiritualreasons. Imagine what theancient woods of Irelandmust have been like for ourancestors. Every tree had itsuses; ash for hurleys, alderfor shields, hazel forconstruction. The mostimportant tree of all was themighty oak, which wasconsidered chief among theairig fedo or nobles of theforest. Woodland was aresource used by everyone,and the importance ofwoodlands is reflected in thelaws created to protect them.In pre-Christian times,Brehons or judges wereresponsible for the law andsome of these laws dealtspecifically with trees. Thepenalty for damagingparticular trees was a fine,usually exacted not in moneybut livestock. For example,if you cut down an oak or ahazel tree, you could be finedtwo and a half cows whilethe fine for cutting down anelm or birch tree would beone cow! The differentpenalties reflected the relativeimportance of each tree.

When it came to translatingspoken Irish into the writtenword the ancient Irish cameup with a system thatreflected the special role that

trees played in every day life.It is thought that thisalphabet, called Ogham wasinvented around the fourthcentury and that it wasdesigned specifically for theIrish language. Where it wasinvented and by whom is notknown. We can still see someexamples on carved standingstones in old monastic sites,in the National Museum ofIreland and in the UlsterMuseum.

The letters of the Oghamalphabet were all assignednames, which may havestarted out as examples forteaching purposes. Unlikeletters in the Englishalphabet, these letter nameswere meaningful words.Originally eight letters werenamed after trees – birch,alder, willow, oak, hazel, pine,ash and yew. In the middleages, scholars read other treenames into the remainingletters, resulting in a treealphabet.

An eighth century descriptionof how Ogham is read againshows how the lore of treeshad become mingled withwriting: ‘Ogham is climbed(read) as a tree is climbed,treading on the root of thetree first with one’s right handbefore one and one’s left handlast’. This indicates thatOgham should be read as itis inscribed on upright stones,from the bottom up.

There was more than just a

Our Woodland Heritage

Fairy thorn

Ogham stone

derivation of dair (oak), suchas dare or derry

With the arrival of Christianity,many trees and groves thatwere sacred in pagan timeswere taken over and adaptedfor Christian worship. Thiscan often be seen today in thepresence of ancient yew treeswithin church grounds or thecombination of the word cillor church with tree names i.eCill Dara or Kildare. We alsoknow that many of the earlyIrish saints had favourite trees;St. Kevin had a favourite yewtree at Glendalough while St.Bridget had a special oak inKildare.

After centuries of exploitation,we have lost much of ournatural woodlands along withthe lore that was so much partof them. Some traditions stillpersist; lone fairy thorns canstill be seen dotted around thelandscape, especiallyaround ringforts andraths, whilstoccasionally one maycome across a rag treeor bush.Although much of ourwoodland traditions aregone forever, we can atleast strive to restoreour native woodlandsto their former gloryand find a place ofrelevance for them in themodern world.

practical and economic valueplaced on trees andwoodlands. The ancient Irishwere a spiritual people wholived in harmony with nature.They saw magic andenchantment all around themand especially in trees. Manyspecies of tree such as yew,hazel, hawthorn, elder androwan were considered tohave magical properties. Veryoften a single hawthorn canbe seen, standing aloneguarding a special place.These trees are regarded asfairy thorns, a meeting placefor fairies or sidhe. Hawthorntrees are also associated withholy wells, where hangingstrips of cloth or ragssometimes marks theirpresence. Such trees areknown as rag trees. Rowantrees too are associated withthe fairy host, while its berrieswere used as a protectionagainst evil.

Individual trees that stoodout in the landscape as beingremarkable, perhaps for theirsize or shape, or the place inwhich they grew, were ofparticular importance andwere known as bile. Thisword still exists in Irish placenames such as Rathvilly inCo. Carlow and Moville inCo. Donegal. Many placenames in Ireland incorporateother tree names. Of theapproximately 62,000townland names in Ireland,13,000 mention trees while1,600 mention some

Rag tree

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The Tree Alphabet

B (beith) Birch

L (luis) Rowan

F (fearn) Alder

S (saille) Willow

N (nin) Ash

H (huath) Hawthorn

D (dair) Oak

T (tinne) Holly

C (coll) Hazel

Q (quert) Apple

M (muin) Bramble

G (gort) Ivy

Ng (ngetal) Reed

Ss (straif) Blackthorn

R (ruis) Elder

A (ailm) Scots Pine

O (onn) Gorse

U (ura) Heather

E (eadha) Aspen

I (iodha) Yew

Chapter One - The collection, storage,treatment and sowing of seed

Instead, take seed fromtrees that grow in thewild.

Seed CollectionSeed may be collected as soonas it ripens on the tree or shrub,or you may wait for it to fall -much easier than trying to reachacorns high on a mature oaktree!

In general, seeds turn colour asthey ripen and are easier to pick,so you can tell when they areready. Guidance is given for eachspecies in the individual notes.Some trees always bear moreseed than others of the samespecies, and many vary in yieldin different years.

You may choose seed from ahealthy looking specimen whichis well grown, but some mis-shapen trees are the result ofpoor soil or excess wind ratherthan any genetic weakness.Certainly avoid trees which lookdiseased, for example withcanker (lumps on trunk orbranches). Try to take seed fromas many specimens as possibleso as to achieve maximumgenetic diversity.

Seed must be fertile if it is togerminate successfully, so it isbest to collect seed where thereis a group of trees, when cross-pollination and fertilisation arelikely. A solitary tree may be toofar away from others of its ownkind.

For native species, choose treeswhich look as if they are part ofthe countryside. For example,do not choose rowan trees in apark or beside the road, whichare probably imported, but

rowan trees growing out in thecountry, perhaps on rockyground which has never beencleared for agriculture.

If you know where the final treeswill be planted, try to take seedfrom that area. Not only will thegenetic match be good, but theseare also likely to grow moresuccessfully - after all, they haveadapted to grow in thoseconditions.

If you intend to plant beside anature reserve or special area ofconservation (SAC), the bestplan is to ask permission tocollect seed within the scheduledarea and then grow on trees fromthat local stock.

That way you can be sure ofplanting the right trees.

StorageYou will need a container whenyou first collect the seed. Hessianor open mesh bags are good, oropen baskets for large seeds likeacorns. If seeds cannot breathethey may become damp andoverheated which reduceschances of successfulgermination, and the seeds mayeven go mouldy.In general, avoid polythene orplastic bags which do not allowair to circulate, but these maybe used for berries which can bekept in open polythene bags forup to a month beforestratification. If the flesh beginsto rot this will not harm theseeds.

Some seeds may be sown straightaway, although there are

problems with birds, mice andshrews eating them over winter.Most need to be stratified:stratification is a cool dampstorage period which allows theseed to prepare for germination.It is a simulation of naturalwinter conditions.

It is sensible to get the seeds intothe seedbed, or start stratifying,as soon as possible aftercollecting them. However, if seedhas to be kept temporarily, leaveit in suitable containers in a cooldark place - a weatherproofgarden shed is fine.

Pine cones, alder cones and birchcatkins may be stored entire, andthe seed shaken out immediatelyprior to sowing. Do not removethe flesh from berries until youare ready to stratify or sow theseed, or plan long term storage,as these kernels are vulnerableto drying out.

The collection, storage,treatment and sowing of seed

You will need special equipmentfor these unreacheable seeds!

Avoid taking seeds from treeswith diseases such as canker.

True native treesare rarely found inroad-side planting.

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CHAPTER ONE THE COLLECTION, STORAGE, TREATMENT & SOWING OF SEED

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Long Term S torageIf you wish to store seed formore than a few weeks, forexample saving part of a goodyear's harvest to plant infuture years, first extract theseeds/stones from their cone,seed pod or fruit/berry fleshas necessary. Once clean anddry, put them into polythenebags, squeeze out as much airas possible and seal firmly.Then store in a refrigerator atbetween 2° and 3° C.

Seed may be kept in this wayfor several years and willremain viable. When you areready to use it, stratify in thecorrect way for that speciesand sow in the spring.

StratificationUnder natural conditions,very few seeds wouldgerminate as soon as they fallfrom the parent tree. Mostwill spend the winter in adormant state and this periodis actually necessary to preparethe seed for germination andgrowth. Some berries may beeaten by birds and the seedsvoided in droppings - this isvery effective assistance togermination.

To grow trees or shrubs incontrolled conditions, it isnecessary to provide thispreparatory period bystratification. Containers such

as small plastic drums,buckets, or shallow calf feedertype buckets may be used.These need to have holesdrilled in their base and a layerof broken crocks or largestones for drainage.

Seeds should be mixed withsand plus leaf mould, groundbark, or a peat substitute - afree draining mix - about onepart seeds to three parts sandmixture. The best sand to useis sharp sand, from a builderssupplier. This is free drainingand the sharpness deters micefrom digging out and eatingyour seeds. Never use sandfrom the seashore, whichwould be salty.

The containers are filled withthe seed/sand mix and a layerof sand put on top. Theyshould stand out of doors innatural conditions, preferablyin a shaded area and it isnecessary to make sure theynever dry out. Below a northwall is ideal.

Stratification is needed bymost seeds, each specieshaving its own requirements.For berries, it stimulatesnatural decomposition of theflesh, the presence of whichactually inhibits germination.Many seeds need a cold periodbefore they can germinate.

As you approach sowing time,in February, you must checkthe stratified seeds for signs

of germination. This isespecially important if therehas been a mild spell ofweather (over 10° C). Theseeds will look swollen andthe tip of the radicle (firstroot) will begin to show.

Once germination begins inthe containers it cannot bestopped. Seed developmentis rapid, so it is a matter ofurgency to get the seeds outof stratification and into theseed bed in a day or two -you cannot leave them forlonger, because the growingradicle is fragile and it mustnot be damaged whenplanting out.

If in doubt, sow early ratherthan waiting too long!

MacerationThis treatment of seedsbefore stratification removesthe flesh and skin whichmaintain dormancy andinhibit germination.Experience has shown thatthe process increases thegermination rate ofhawthorn, holly and rowan.

Although it is a bit of extrawork, it is recommended tomaximise your return oncollecting berries but it is notessential: most berry seedswill germinate afterstratification with or withoutpreliminary maceration.


Stratification drums should be leftwell-drained and outdoors innatural conditions.

Stratification - make holes in yourbuckets and crocks for drainage.

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First obtain a strong water-tight container. A strong flatbottomed bucket is usuallyadequate. Next you need apulverising tool e.g. a largepotato masher or a roundedthree inch pole. Half fill thebucket with berries and addtwo pints of water. An up anddown gentle pounding actionwith the pole or masher willreduce the berries to mush.The addition of the water willreduce the tendency for themixture to stick to the masher.The resulting mass of pulp,skin and exposed seed maythen be stratified in the usualway or the seeds may beseparated out.

Using a rounded pole about11/2 metres long saves havingto bend over the containerand the weight of the polehelps with the pulverising. Itis easier if the berries are fullyripe or crushing them can bedifficult.

Seed ExtractionAfter maceration, the entiremass of pulp, skin and berriesmay be sown, but extractionof the seed makes the wholeprocess more exact. It alsoreleases the seed from theinhibiting effects of thepigments contained withinthe pulp and skin.

Vigorous washing of the dampmass with hose pressure andstirring causes the pulp andskin to rise to the top, whenit can be poured off. Theviable seed, being heavier, willsink to the bottom and caneasily be separated. Discardseeds that float, which areinfertile (this float test is alsoa good check for viability ofhazel nuts).

Extraction is particularlybeneficial for rowan, buthawthorn and holly alsobenefit although these are stillslow to germinate, needingtwo to three seasons.

SowingIf seed is sown straight awayafter collection, it will stratifynaturally in the ground.However, some species needa really cold winter to breakdormancy, some take two orthree years to develop, and ingeneral germination is slowerand more variable withoutproper preparation bystratifying.

When seeds are stratifiedunder controlled conditionsfew are lost and germinationis more even and reliable.Maceration and extractionhelp some species even more.

There are other problemswith sowing straight away -seed may seem to us to behidden under the ground,but there are plenty of birdsand small mammals that cansmell it out and make a goodmeal.

So seed losses may be high,seed will be occupyingground when space is short,and you will have a crop ofuneven age young trees. Ona small scale this may notmatter too much, but if youare producing trees in anyquantity it adds to the labour,which is not desirable.

More advice is given after theindividual accounts.


On a small scale, extract seedsby hand.

Non-viable seeds float to the top.

Maceration separates the fleshypulp from the seeds.

Applying the float test to hazel nuts.

Hosing aids the separation.

Chapter Two -Trees

CHAPTER TWO TREES

(Alnus glutinosa)Alder - Fearnóg

One of Ireland's most traditional and widely distributed trees, alders may be found in dampareas, beside freshwater loughs and along river banks, where their strong fibrous roots may helpto keep the bank in place. Alder woodlands are found in Ross Island, Killarney, Co Kerry andthe Gearagh, Co. Cork, while Grantstown wood, Co. Laois is a rare example of wet woodlandon an alkaline soil.

Like most trees, alder flowers before the leaves are out, with attractive reddish catkins and smallcones that contain the seeds. Alder will grow in most soils, and likes wet sites. Given rich dampsoil alder will grow rapidly and is a really productive tree for timber. In ancient Ireland sectionsof alder trunks were used as round shields. Later, it was used for making clogs and also in thefurniture trade where it was known as 'Irish mahogany'. As it is resistant to decay when submergedin water, alder is used to make sluice gates and other structures along streams, rivers and canals.

CollectionCollect alder seeds bygathering ripe cones inautumn. When dried thecones will open and can beshaken, in a bag or tin box, tohelp release the seeds. Separateseeds from the cones using ariddle or a large sieve.

StorageStore the seed in a cool dryplace in a natural fibre (hessianis best choice) bag. Never storefresh seed in a plastic bagbecause it excludes air andcauses the seed to heat upthereby lessening its viability.They should be stratified forone month prior to sowing,in a mixture of sand and peatsubstitute.

SowingSeeds may be sown in thespring, either in seed beds forlarger scale production or ona smaller scale in seed trays.

For a large seedbed, broadcastthe seed onto the soil. Roll theseed bed to fix the seed to thebed. It is crucial for the seed

to have proper contact withthe soil. Lightly cover withcoarse sand using a riddle.Ensure that the seed bed doesnot dry out duringgermination.

On a smaller scale sow bysprinkling thinly onto a wellmoistened general purposeseed compost in seed trays orpots. Do not cover the seedswith soil. If you want you cancover the seed trays with glassto prevent the seed bed dryingout. Leave it outdoors in theshade (make sure it is not indirect sunlight). Again ensurethe seed tray never dries out.When the seeds havegerminated the seedlings canbe treated as you would anyvegetable or flower seed. Prickout the seedlings, holdingthem by the two coytledons(the first green leaves whichdevelop from the seed). Theseedlings may be planted intopots, plug trays, or preparedopen ground. Young trees canthen be planted out after oneyear's growth but it is usuallysafer to wait for two years.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

Arbutus or the strawberry tree is a small evergreen tree,which in Ireland can grow to be a forest tree reaching heightsof up to 15 metres. It has an unusual distribution, as it onlygrows naturally throughout the Mediterranean and certainparts of Ireland. Unlike many of our other native trees, whichreached us via Great Britain, Arbutus is thought to have spreadhere over the land bridge from Brittany.Called the strawberry tree because of the distinct shape andcolour of its fruit, this species is found mainly in Co. Kerryespecially in the Killarney district where it forms a large partof the natural forest on the islands and shores of the lakes. Itis also found in unshaded parts of Glengariff Wood, Co. Corkand around Lough Gill in Co. Sligo.Arbutus produces masses of white flowers in November andDecember. Since the fruit takes 12 months to ripen, the treecarries both mature fruit and flowers at the same time. Thefruit itsef is edible, but as the Latin name unedo – ‘eat onlyonce’ – implies, it is not very palatable.

(Arbutus unedo)Arbutus, the Strawberry tree – Caithne

CollectionThe fruit ripens in lateautumn and early winter, andwill drop off only when ripe.

Treatment Seeds can be removed fromthe ripe fruits by carefulmaceration and the pulpwashed away.

SowingThey must be kept moist, butnot waterlogged, andunshaded.

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Arbutus in Killarney National Park, Co Kerry

18

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

Ash is the commonest tree in Irish hedgerows, and is also a traditional woodlandspecies. It will grow in a range of soils, not acid, and prefers well-drained sites. Ashwoods are found in the Burren, Co Clare, and Hanging Rock in South Fermanagh.The flowers are very dark, almost black, and may be seen before the leaves develop- ash is one of the last trees to come into leaf and is one of the first to lose its leavesin autumn. The seeds are clumps of winged keys. The pale dense timber makes goodfirewood and is also used for hurley sticks, snooker cues and furniture.

Ash (on the left) should not be confusedwith Rowan, or mountain ash (on the right)

(Fraxinus excelsior)Ash – Fuinseóg

Growing from seedIf you wish to grow aspenfrom seed, you must find amix of aspen trees. Often a'grove' has arisen by suckersfrom one tree and will all beof one sex, as aspen is a singlesex tree. When both sexes arepresent, seeds are borne onthe female catkins in May.These small seeds must besown immediately aftercollection, on damp bareearth, pressed in gently butleft uncovered (like birch).However, as the seed is onlyviable for about three days itis more feasible to grow itfrom suckers.

The one definitely native poplar is aspen (all otherpoplars may be assumed to be introduced, althoughthe black poplar is still being argued about). Aspenwill grow into a full sized tree. The leaves make adistinctive sound as they rattle gently in the wind,and they have a sweet smell in the spring. Aspen canbe found in wet areas and around lake edges such asin Glenveagh, Co. Donegal. Poplars produce seedson catkins, but also spread vegetatively by suckersi.e. new shoots growing up from the roots. It iseasiest to propagate aspen by cutting through rootsand transplanting a sucker. A warning should begiven about planting aspen in damp sites with goodsoil. They sucker very readily and may spread toofar, taking over too great an area. Choose aspen ifyou don't mind an invasion!

(Populus tremula)Aspen – Crann creathach

CollectionEither collect ash keys whenfull-size but still green duringAugust or September; orcollect when fully ripe andbrown in October andNovember.

StorageStratify fully ripe seed for 16- 18 months in sand.

SowingSow those collected in Augustimmediately althoughgermination the followingspring can be erratic.

Sow those stratified for 16 -18 months in March or April.Ash requires a neutral soil forgood growth.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

Birch - Downy - Beith chlúmhach

Silver - Beith gheal

There are two types of birch in Ireland, downy and silver. The most usual is thedowny birch, which like silver birch is a delicate tree with fine branches and smallleaves. The springtime flowers are catkins which stay on the tree and contain themature seed by autumn.

Birch will grow in poor soils, but likes a sunny position. Downy birch is tolerant ofwet sites, but silver birch needs good drainage. Birch woods occur widely, especiallyon marginal soils, lake edges, such as Lough Ennell Co. Westmeath, fens and on driedout bogs such as Ardkill Bog, Co. Kildare. Birch is typically associated with theSperrins, growing in peat at the edge of bogs, and on the light sand and gravel soils.It makes a good ornamental garden tree, as it does not grow too large. Like alder, itsseeds are popular with small seed-eating birds such as siskin and redpoll. In earlytimes toghers or walkways, usually across bog land were made from birch. Nowadays,it is more commonly used in making plywood.

CollectionGather ripe catkins when theyare dry and are about todisintegrate. Begin testingthem in August. The catkinswill dry and fall apart releasingthe seeds and catkin scales.Collect seeds from nativewoods. Do not choose birchtrees in gardens, parks, orplanted roadsides as these areprobably imported stock.

StorageStore the seeds and catkinscales in a cool airy place.They are best stored in anatural fibre sack. Shake thebag regularly to disturb theseeds and encourage aircirculation.

SowingBirch can be raised from seedalthough silver birch is harderto germinate than downybirch.

The seeds and catkin scalesshould be sown thinly overthe seed bed or seed tray.Roll the seed bed because theseed is very sensitive toseedbed surface conditions.Cover with a light layer ofsand to help hold moisture.It must be a very thin layer asthe seed is light sensitive andwill not germinate if the layerof sand is too thick. Somerecommend no coverage at all.

It is essential to keep the seedbed moist throughout thegermination period and fortwo weeks after germination.Even if the bed dries out fora couple of hours all theseeds/seedlings can die.However, birch seedlings growrapidly when they are givenideal growing conditions.

(Betula pendula)

Birch wood

(Betula pubescens)

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

(Prunus padus)Bird Cherry – Donnroisc

This species is most frequently found in thenorthwest, for example around Churchill andLough Gartan, Co. Donegal. It is most easilyspotted in the spring, around May, when theflowers are out. The creamy-white flowers areborne in rows along flower stalks about 10cm.long, and are quite obvious above the greenfoliage.

The dark berries or small cherries ripen in August,when the trees may be more difficult to locate,so you have to remember where you spottedthem in the spring, (if you search for cherriesafter the 15th you may be too late!). It may bepossible to mark them with a tie around thetrunk. Bird cherry is worth the effort as it is anattractive small tree with true flowers and growswillingly, preferring good soil and a shelteredsite.

Treat bird cherry fruit as common wild cherry.

22

CollectionCollect the berries as soon asthey ripen from late July butin some places the birds eatthem all. To collect cherriesyou have to find a group offertile trees. Cherries are self-sterile and in a hedgerow orsmall copse all may havegrown by suckers from oneoriginal tree, so they will notyield fruit. The easiest wayto pick up cherry stones isfrom beneath the tree itself.Good big cherry trees yieldthe best crop.

TreatmentRemove the flesh from theseed - if in small numbersvolunteer collectors oftenremove the flesh by eating it!Removing the flesh andcleaning the stones preventsstringent dormancy. Ifgathered while still hard storethem in polythene bags untilsoft or even partially rotten.Then wash off the pulp. Oncethe flesh has been removedseed should be stratified orsown straight away.

StorageSeeds can be sownimmediately after collectionbut are very vulnerable toattack by mice andchaffinches. They are beststratified in moist sand mixuntil early March/April.

If seed has to be stored itshould be in an airtightcontainer in a cool place fromthe time of extraction to thetime of stratification whichneeds to start in October.

SowingSow them in shallow drills tothe depth of the seed itselfand cover with a layer ofcoarse grit or sand. Do notdisturb seedlings until thefollowing winter.

Wild cherry may be grown bylifting rooted suckers, but askthe landowner's permissionfirst! Remember you need amix for fertile trees, sotransplant suckers from morethan one source.

(Prunus avium)Wild Cherry or Gean – Crann silín fiáin

One of our most attractive trees, with its white or very pale pink flowers in spring, followedby hanging cherries. The bark is also attractive, and the leaves provide autumn colour. Wildcherry is very common in St. Johns Wood, Co. Roscommon.

Cherry is often found in old field hedgerows where it may have been planted by man, but isalso found in mixed deciduous woodland. The old farm trees may not be native in the senseof ancient woodland, but they are part of our rural history, like crab apple and old varietiesof apple, pear, plum and damson, once grown in gardens and small orchards throughout thecountry. It is often used as a decorative wood in joinery and furniture making.

CHAPTER TWO TREES

Cherry blossom

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

Like the wild cherry, crab apple has been deliberately grownaround old farmsteads (and the fruit used for crab apple jelly)but is also a truly native species found in old woodland. Crabapple is found in hedgerows throughout the country. Unlikemodern hybrid apples, crab apples grow true from the applepips.

It is a small tree, very suitable for gardens. It bears attractivepink/white apple blossom in the spring, while the applesprovide an autumn feature in the garden, as well as a usefulcrop.

CollectionPick the apples as soon as theyappear ripe, usually inOctober. The pips should beextracted from the apples andstratified straight away.

(Malus sylvestris)Crab Apple – Crann fia-úll

SowingPips should be sown inFebruary in a sheltered site oreven cold greenhouse or poly-tunnel, as the seedlings arevulnerable to frost. Theyshould be sown in a shallowdepression and just lightlycovered with soil or sand.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

The wych elm is native, but many varieties of wych elmand smooth leaved elm have been introduced and planted inIreland in the past, mostly for timber. Wych elm is chieflyfound in mountain glens in the northwest of the country.English elm was mainly planted in demesnes. In recent yearsmany of these trees have died as a result of Dutch elm disease.English elms will re-grow from stumps and will form suckersin woodland or hedgerows - these may be used for propagation.

The Irish wych elm, which is less common, appears moreresistant to disease. It does not produce suckers and must begrown from seed. Leaves are rough to the touch, oval withtoothed margins.

The flowers, as with many trees, appearbefore the leaves. They are reddishclusters borne directly on the twigs,and are not obvious until they matureinto pale green seeds which almost looklike leaves, except they ripen and fallsoon after the real leaves appear.

(Ulmus glabra)Wych Elm – Leamhán sléibhe

CollectionSeeds may be collected as soonas they ripen and begin to fall,in May /early June.

SowingThey should be sownimmediately, watered intoplace before covering lightlywith soil, and then kept moist.They germinate very quicklyand make significant growthin their first year.

A native species with many uses and an ancient history. Hazel nuts are one of the foodsassociated with the very earliest human settlements in Ireland of Mesolithic man, who also usedhazel as the strong flexible timber for his huts. Hazel bushes may be coppiced i.e. cut right backto a stump, and will re-grow. The slender timber poles that result from coppicing were usedin the construction of wattle and daub, and fences. Hazel is also a traditional material in theconstruction of eel and lobster traps.

Hazel grows as an under storey in oak and ash woodlands or as pure hazel woods. Hazel scrubwoodland covers extensive areas of limestone, particularly on the Burren plateaus of north Clareand soils derived from limestone in the Glens of Antrim. It is often associated with a richground flora of woodland flowers. Hazel is well known for its yellow 'lambs tail' catkins inspring, but the nuts grow from small bud-like structures with a tuft of red - the stigma of thefemale flowers.

CollectionCollect from the wilder areas.The nuts are up to 2 cm long,pale green at first, ripening topale brown and are borneusually in pairs, each betweentwo overlapping light greenbracts or husks. The first seedsshed by the tree are usuallynon-viable.It is best to collect the nutsdirectly from the tree whenthey begin to turn brown. Usea tool of some sort to pulldown the branches e.g. a rakeor use a specialised extendingclaw. When they are fully ripethey will fall to the ground(or the tree can be shaken)and the nuts are then collectedfrom the ground. But youneed to be quick - it isamazing how fast wildlife willclean the woodland floor ofall fallen nuts.

TreatmentUse the flotation seed testingmethod to ascertain which

(Corylus avellana)Hazel – Coll

seed is viable and which isnot. Drop the seed onto thewater surface of a bucket ofwater; if the seed floats it isnon viable and should bediscarded. Only nuts whichsink contain viable seeds.

StratificationHazel should be stratified for5 - 6 months before sowing(they can be sownimmediately but are alwaysunder danger of being eatenby mice, squirrels or birds).The shells will then be readyto split naturally and can betransferred to the seed bed.If they are beginning togerminate you may be able tosee the bright sulphur yellowcolour of the radicle throughthe split shell. Check regularlyfrom February onwards.

StorageRemove the nuts from thehusk (the "involucre"). It isbest to stratify them straight

away. If you must store themtemporarily, do so up to 4weeks in a hessian bag, plasticonion sack, or basket whichallows air to circulate. Placein a cool dark environment.It is important not to let themheat up - try never to storethem to a depth greater than15cm. If you have to store15cm or more turn the seedregularly (i.e. shake the hessianbag).

SowingUse the broadcast method forgrowing a large quantity andthen cover the nuts.Otherwise use a dibber andplant to a depth of the nutitself in a pot, container or aseed bed. It is crucial the sownnuts are protected from miceand game birds. The nutshellsplits upon germination andpheasants can sniff them outand dig up the nut.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

CollectionCollect berries anytime overthe winter (use tough gloves)from trees in wild woods.

Storage/StratificationIt is difficult to remove theflesh from holly berries. Theyshould be stratified in dampsand and kept in a cool placefor a year and sown in thesecond spring.

SowingAfter a full year ofstratification, sow thinly inrows 15 - 20 cm apart andcover to protect from miceand birds. The following yeartransplant and grow for afurther 1-2 years before settingout in a permanent site.

If seeds are sown withoutstratification, they may take2 - 3 years to germinate. Evenwith stratification,germination can be erratic.

The young plants do nottransplant happily, so there isa case for growing them fromseed on their final growing site,or in pots after their first year.

PropagationIt is possible to take cuttingsfrom holly. A small side shootabout 15 cm with the 'heel'where it joins the main branchshould be selected and grownin a suitable sand/loam mix.September is the best time totake cuttings, which are bestgrown under shelter.

Seedlings or cuttings shouldbe moved once they are wellestablished (but under 20cmtall) and when the soil is warm.They both need to beprotected from frost damage.They are also at risk fromgrazing live stock. Althoughspiny, holly is liked by mostfarm animals.

(Ilex aquifolium)Holly – Cuileann

The evergreen holly is a native species which forms the shrub layer in some ofour oldest woods. You may look for it in woodland, or in the narrow gullies of theSperrins or Donegal uplands, where holly and rowan can survive the harsh uplandconditions.

It is another visually attractive small tree very suitable for gardens as a specimentree or as a hedge, slow growing and very dense. Holly trees are either male orfemale - only the female can bear berries, so it is always worth planting severalholly trees together. Both sexes bear small creamy flowers.

Although they drop their spiny leaves all the year round, especially in the heat ofsummer, they are green all year, and along with ivy were traditionally used for mid-winter or Christmas decorations, as a sign of green life to come. In some areas itis considered unlucky to cut down holly, and it may be left as standards along ahedgerow. The hard pale wood is valued for wood carving.

(Quercus spp.)Oak – Dair

Once widespread throughout Ireland, centuries of harvesting, withfew trees being replaced, means that truly native oak can be hard to find,though there are small woods in most counties. Very often, semi-naturaloak woodlands contain a proportion of birch and ash, with hazel, hollyand rowan scattered throughout the understorey. Oak has been harvestedfor its fine timber for centuries and is much prized for its visual qualitiesand durability. It is commonly used in the making of furniture, for veneersand in the manufacture of casks.The male flowers of oak are borne onrather inconspicuous catkins, which come out just before the leaves, butthe seeds - acorns - are far more obvious. Oak trees do not produce agood crop every year, so it is worth gathering plenty in a good year.

(Quercus petraea)

Sessile Oak – Dair ghaelach

The traditional Irish oak is the sessile oak. It is the main species tobe found in Ireland’s most familiar woodlands. Sessile oak is found morecommonly on poor acid soils, often in hilly regions. These woodlandscan be found in Killarney, Co. Kerry, the Glen of the Downs, Co. Wicklowand Glenveagh, Co. Donegal, to name but a few. They are importantecologically as habitats for hundreds of invertebrate species along withmany species of birds and mammals.Sessile means that the acorns have no stalk while those of the pedunculateoak hang from long stalks.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

Pedunculate Oak – Dair ghallda(Quercus robur)

CollectionRemember there is not a goodcrop of acorns every year, so bepatient. Acorns can becollected while still on the treeif they are ripe. They can bepicked when the acorn hasturned brown and comes awayfrom the cup fairly easily.When the seed is fully ripethere is usually a big fall ofseed. It often happens on themorning following the firstfrost. In tree nurseries you canoften hear the question "hasthe big fall happened yet?"

It is also important to note thatwith oak (as with hazel andbeech) there is a gradual fall ofnon-viable seed before the "bigfall".

StorageSow straight away if possibleas stored seed may lose viability. If necessary store in a cool,well ventilated place in ahessian bag. Protect againstbeing eaten by mice.

Shake the bag gently, every sooften, if collection is on a largescale to prevent the acornsheating up. It is also veryimportant that they are notallowed to dry out as they loseviability rapidly. In the NewYear check every so often tosee they are not beginning toshrivel. If the first signs areobserved the seeds should besprinkled with water to keepthem plump until they aresown in the spring.

SowingOne method is to sow acornssoon after collection to adepth of 10cm, leave themover winter, and then inMarch rake off the top 5cmto leave a 5cm covering. Thisprotects them from beingeaten, and they should shootin May. Otherwise store andplant in late March. Allowplenty of space for theseedlings which have bigleaves even when very young.

The pedunculate or English oak is also considered to be a nativetree. It is generally associated with heavy lowland soils and canwithstand wet soil in winter. These oak woods are found inCharleville, Co. Offaly and Abbeyleix, Co. Laois.

(Sorbus aucuparia)Rowan - Caorthann

Rowan adds colour to woodland throughout Ireland, especiallyin the hills where it will grow at a high altitude even on rockyground: its other common name is mountain ash.

The creamy flowers ripen into scarlet berries which colourearly in the season and provide food for thrushes through thewinter. A mistle thrush will defend a rowan tree or holly as itsterritory, not for nesting, but through the winter as its feedingterritory.

Rowan is an attractive garden tree: it likes well drained sitesbut will thrive in most soils.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

CollectionCollect from native woods orfrom isolated upland areas.The berries are best collectedfrom the tree itself, before thebirds eat them. Macerate theberries and then wash the pulpand skin from the seed. Atthis stage the viable seed willsink to the bottom of thecontainer whereas non-viableseed will rise to the surfacealong with the pulp and skin.

Stratification/SowingIf you extract the seed fromthe berry by macerating orfermenting and then wash theseed, removing all the redpigment, it may be planted inthe first spring. Experiencehas shown that totalextraction of rowan seed does

speed up the germinationprocess. If you want to sow inthe first spring and maximiseyour chances of germinationit is important to gather thefruits early, just as they arebeginning to turn scarlet.Germination inhibitors arepresent in the red pigment.Stratification should beginimmediately and they willgerminate in the first spring.

If you gather late, dormancyis enhanced and the percentageof seeds germinating in thefirst spring decreases. Sow theseed that has been treated asabove in March in the firstspring.

Rowan can also be stratifiedwhole and planted out 18months later at the beginningof the second spring - this givesthe most successful evengermination.

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

Originally a native tree. Pollen found in soil samples from bogs indicates thatScots pine was widespread in Ireland thousands of years ago. Human impact and thegradual change to a warmer, wetter climate led to its decline, and it may even havedied out completely. Pine stumps have been found in bogs, standing where they grew,7,000 years ago, before the formation of the peat. Most of the pines around thecountryside now were imported from Scotland and planted over the last 150 years.Efforts have been made to reintroduce this once native species as in some situationsit is fitting that Scots pine be encouraged. It can be grown on marginal land whereother species of tree would not survive. It also matures quicker and produces moreversatile wood than broadleaf trees. Even though it is a coniferous tree, it nonethelesssupports a wide variety of wildlife as habitat diversity changes in line with canopyclosure. Our native red squirrel prefers the seeds of this tree than any other.

(Pinus sylvestris)Scots Pine - Péine albanach

CollectionIt is possible to grow pinefrom seed - the seeds are smallwith a single wing and falleasily from between thesections of ripe pine cones. Only collect cones in forestsif you are sure they are Scotspine - most commerciallygrown conifers are not nativespecies.

Storage/SowingStore seed dry in the fridge ina sealed polythene bag. Mixwith sand mixture forstratification one monthbefore you wish to sow in thespring and return to the fridgeto stratify for one month.Then sow in fine soil, coveringthe seeds lightly. These mustbe kept damp but pineseedlings do not like to bewaterlogged.

These are small trees, quite unusual in the wild, and many imported specimens have been planted in towns and parks,along roads etc. If you want the truly native tree you may haveto search - it is most common in the south of the country.Whitebeam leaves have a pale under surface, which explainsits name, while the cream flowers ripen to red berries. Thehard pale wood was traditionally used for small furniture suchas the legs of stools.

There are several whitebeam species native to Ireland that maybe found in wild woods or cliffs where they have escapedgrazing. It can also be found in hedges. The most widespreadis Sorbus aria, the common European whitebeam, which ismost frequent in Co. Galway. Also found is S. rupicola, especiallyon cliffs, and S. devoniensis, and its distribution is restrictedto Waterford, Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford.The distribution of a further three species is limited to certainparts of the country – S. latifolia, with broadleaves; S. anglica,which is found only in Co. Kerry and the only one unique toIreland, S. hibernica, found on limestone across the midlandsand in Glenveagh, Co. Donegal.

(Sorbus spp.)Whitebeam - Fionncholl

CollectionIf you do find trees growingin wild woodland or cliffscollect the berries as soon asthey ripen in autumn.

StratificationWhitebeam berries, likehawthorn and rowan, need tohave the red flesh removedand the seed extracted as soonas possible. If the seeds arestratified, chances ofgermination are improved.(See instructions for rowan).

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CHAPTER TWO TREES

There are several varieties of willow native to Ireland. All grow in damp soil, havecatkins or 'pussy willows' that produce seeds, but are most easily grown from cuttings,which root very readily.

The most widespread willow species are the goat willow, the rusty or grey willow (bothknown as 'sallies'), and the eared willow. While these generally grow on damp ground,the goat willow will also colonise rough and disturbed ground in drier areas. The bayleaved willow, with glossy green leaves, is found beside small rivers and ditches.

Osiers, with long fine leaves, do not develop into large trees. They were often grownand managed by cutting right back to the base to encourage long flexible shoots usedfor baskets. Now this species may be grown for biomass and provide a renewable energysource.

All willows are rich in insects and so provide a good food source for insect eating birdsin summer, notably for the willow warbler.

(Salix spp.)Willows - Saileach

Seeds of creeping willow.

PropagationWillow establishes easily by wind blown seed and can also be propagated bytaking cuttings approx 8 inches long from stems between half an inch and oneand a half inches during dormancy, which are simply pushed into the soil to a depth of 4 inches max.

The yew is native and may be found in old woods althoughit is often seen in the artificial surroundings of estates orchurchyards. An evergreen conifer (although an unusual one),yew is a dramatic tree with its dark foliage and red berriesencasing a single seed. Reenadina wood on the MuckrossPeninsula, Co. Kerry is Ireland’s only native yew wood.

A sport (unique form) of the Irish yew (Taxus baccata 'fastigata')with very upright growth was originally found growing onrocky limestone hills in Co. Fermanagh. This was cultivatedat Florencecourt, and subsequently in many gardens andchurchyards.

Many yews are single sex, but most Irish yews are female andso bear fruit. Even if the flesh is removed, these may be slowto germinate. The best seeds are those that have been eatenby birds and have passed through them; such bare seeds maybe collected from under yew trees.

There are ornamental garden varieties, some with yellow fruitor even golden foliage - these have to be propagated by cuttings.

Yew trees do not need rich soil but they do need a well drainedsite, preferably not too exposed to wind or frost.

The leaves are poisonous to most livestock, and the seeds arealso toxic, so care must be taken in planting it where animalsand children are not at risk. The fruit can be eaten safely bybirds, and yew is in fact a good tree for wildlife as birds roostand nest in it.

CollectionFruits may be gathered as soonas they are ripe and brightlycoloured. It is best to collectseeds from a group of yewtrees in woodland. For a smallnumber of seeds, you couldtry collecting under the treesfor those left in birddroppings.

StratificationRemove the flesh. Seeds maybe sown straight away butgermination is uneven. Theyare better stratified for at leasttwo seasons.

(Taxus baccata)Yew - Iúr

SowingSow in early spring after thesecond winter of stratification.Seedlings are slow growingand can be left on site for twoyears, then lined out at 30cmapart for a further two yearsbefore placing in permanentsites.

PropagationYew can be propagated bycuttings, taken in Septemberbut this is generally used forgarden species which are notfertile.

Yew topiary

CHAPTER TWO TREES

33

Chapter Three - Shrubs

CHAPTER THREE SHRUBS

Spiny shrub of roadside and hedgerow, blackthorn formsdense scrub cover where it is left untrimmed and ungrazed.It bears dense clusters of small white flowers, which contrastwith the dark bark of its twigs, very early inthe year. Blackthorn hedges can appear to becovered in white.

After the flowers, the small oval leaves appear,and then in autumn the harvest of sloesdevelops. These look like small damsons, butare very sour and are not eaten directly bypeople, although birds take them. Sloes havetraditionally been used for flavouring gin orpoteen. The use of blackthorn wood is mainlydecorative, for example the manufacture ofshillelagh walking sticks and tourist souvenirs.

35

(Prunus spinosa)Blackthorn - Draighean

CollectionIt is easier to collect sloes inlate September/October whenthe leaves have fallen and thefruits are more visible. Usegloves if collecting by hand.It is possible to collect fromthe ground after shaking thetree once the fruits areblue/black. Only collect fromyour local area in oldhedgerows.

Storage/StratificationRemove flesh/partially rot ifnecessary. Store stones inmoist sand, outdoors,protected from mice.

SowingSow in nursery rows in latewinter/early spring and allowseedlings to grow undisturbeduntil the autumn. Chaffinchesare notoriously fond of thetasty cotyledons! Plant out atone year old 25 - 30 cmspacing apart and they will beready for permanent sites inone more year. Blackthorn iseasy to grow on any well-drained soil, and prefers asunny position. It is bestplanted out young as manyfail at the transplanting stage.

36


(Rubus fructicosus)Bramble - Dris

Bramble is a tough colonisingplant and is notorious forrapid growth of stems, whichreach out from a hedgerow tocolonise new ground - theyare unusual in that when theytouch the ground the tips canform new roots and start a

new plant.These rooted branches arecalled 'stolons'. It is easier tocut off and transplant a rootedsection rather than to growplants from seed.Brambles have flowers thatare attractive to insects, and

the blackberries provide foodfor insects, birds, andmammals (includinghumans!). If you need to coverrough ground, which cannotbe cultivated, brambles are anexcellent choice.

(Cytisus scoparius)Broom - Giolcach sléibhe

Broom is sometimes confused with gorse, because theyellow flowers are a similar shape. However, broom has afew soft leaves on the long straight stems, not spines; itgrows on light sandy soils, and it only flowers in mid summer.

The flowers are followed by seeds in miniature pea podswhich dry and split open to scatter the seeds. On the rightsoil, broom can spread rapidly, for example disused sandand gravel quarries.

On light soils, it is a good shrub component of woodlandon a sunny south facing bank. If it is to be grown as anornamental shrub in gardens, it needs to be cut back or aftera few years becomes too leggy and tends to collapse.

CollectionPick the dry seed pods in latesummer/autumn.

StorageSeeds may be taken out of theseed cases and sown straightaway or stored dry in anairtight container over winter.

Treatment/SowingThe seeds have a particularlyhard seed coat, and to achievesuccessful germination thishas to be breached. One wayis to take individual seeds and

rub them with sand paper orrough emery board until youcan just see the paler materialinside the dark seed coat. Itonly needs to be breached onone spot.

Alternatively, seeds may betreated by pouring boilingwater over them and leavingto cool.

Once the seeds have beentreated, plant themindividually in pots or plugtrays in light soil.

Buckthorn - Paide bréan(Rhamnus cathartic)

(Frangula alnus)

37

An uncommon shrub, which grows at lakesides often onlimestone soil around the shores of Upper Lough Erne and theShannon, Lough Neagh and Lough Beg. It is not tolerant ofheavy shade under trees or very dry sites. There is someresemblance to dogwood (it is sometimes called 'blackdogwood'), but the oval leaves have an unusual pattern ofalmost parallel veins. The inconspicuous white-green flowers(not unlike spindle flowers) are borne close to the dark branchesand are followed by clusters of black berries on the femalebushes only. This buckthorn is single sex, with about sevenfemale bushes to each male.


Collection/SowingPick the berries as soon asthey are ripe in October,extract the seed, and stratifyimmediately. Some bushescrop much more heavily thanothers. In order to ensure yourown crop of berries, you needboth sexes present: because ofthe odd ratio of females tomales, you need to plant adozen or so bushes.

Alder buckthorn was once common, coppiced and the woodused for charcoal. It is a bush of wet, though notwaterlogged sites and is found around the shores ofLough Ree. It has a very long flowering season andlong fruiting season from July to November.

Collection/SowingPick berries as soon as theyare ripe, extract the seed andstratify until March when theyshould be sown shallowly.Keep the seedbed moist.

Purging B.

Alder B.

PurgingAlder

The Wild Rose of Summer celebrated in song and verse, the flowers are typicallyfound in long established hedges where they enliven our roadsides with their largeblooms, which vary in colour from white to deep pink.

In autumn the rose hips develop, colourful red containers for thesmall seeds within. Small birds are able to extract the seeds, in spiteof irritating protective hairs within the rose hip. Other species, andsmall mammals such as field mice, eat the flesh of the rose hip itself.

Traditionally, they were harvested and used for rose hip cordial,syrup or wine. Rose hips are a rich source of vitamin C.

There are a number of other less common species widely distributedaround the country. Among these are the Burnet rose (Rosapimpinellifolia), a small wild rose, is found on coastal sand dunesand at a few inland sites also. It has a cream flower followed byvery dark hips. It can be grown in free-draining sites in gardens,but should perhaps not be introduced outside its normal habitat.

38


(Rosa canina)Dog Rose - Feirdhris

CollectionWild rose hips may becollected from hedgerows inthe autumn, though glovesare essential!

StorageThe hips may be stored overwinter, but will need to bechecked to ensure they do notgo mouldy.The seeds must be extractedfrom the hips (which may besquashed) and then sown

straight away but they willnot germinate for two winters.They need to be stratified overtwo winters before they willgerminate.

PropagationRose plants may literally besplit to form several plants.They will grow suckers if cutback to the roots and thesesuckers may be transplanted. It is also possible to drop orlayer branches, which willroot, or to take cuttings.

Sometimes known as the Bour tree, this is a common shrubaround the countryside and often found beside old farmhousesor byres, especially associated with old refuse tips or middenswhere it appreciates the extra nutrients in the soil. In the wild,it may be associated with badger setts.

The idea of deliberately planting elder trees - which grow againif they are chopped down, and spread rapidly on waste ground- may seem incredible to older country people. However, elderis a very good wildlife species, with its wide heads of creamyflowers followed by hanging clusters of dark red/black berries.

As with all other species, the truly native variety has the mostwildlife value (ornamental varieties are used in landscapeplanting). Elder seeds germinate willingly,and the tree will grow in most soils.

Both elder flowers and berries may be usedin cooking and for making wine. Thebranches have a soft pithy centre that canbe removed and a section used forhomemade flute or whistle. In nature, suchhollow branches provide nest chambers forbumble bee larvae, and shelter forhibernating insects.

CollectionCollect berries as soon as theyare ripe, usually in October.

TreatmentThe berries may be soakedand macerated or fermentedto remove the flesh and releasethe small dark seeds.

SowingThe seeds should be sownimmediately after extractionand lightly covered with soilor stratified until March.

39

(Sambucus nigra)Elder - Tromán


40

(Ulex europaeus and Ulex gallii)Gorse - Aiteann

CollectionGorse seeds may easily beharvested by picking the softbrown seed pods in latesummer.

SowingThe seeds should be extractedfrom the pods and treated asfor broom. They are bestsown in a prepared seedbedon their final site, or grownin pots - bare root seedlingsdo not transplant well. Gorseseedlings are frost sensitiveand prefer well drainedsandy/acid soil.


Perhaps the best known and most widelydistributed of our native shrubs, gorse is alsoknown as whin or furze. There are two types, thecommon or European gorse, and the western ormountain gorse. The common gorse is a verysuitable shrub component along the edge of newwoodland, and also makes an excellent hedge.

Gorse is well known for flowering almost all theyear round, and its spiny 'leaves' are evergreen.Gorse supports many insects and spiders, whichin turn provide food for small birds, which maynest in the excellent shelter provided by thesedense spiny bushes. It is often under-estimated asa wildlife resource. The flowers were traditionallyused to colour Easter eggs, and may even be usedfor wine.

Not a rose at all, but this is certainly one of our mostattractive wayside shrubs. Guelder rose is usually found inhedges or at the edge of fields andsmall woods beside a drain - it needsdamp.

The flowers are a disc of creamyblossoms, larger at the outer edge.These are followed by translucentbright red berries, which colour earlyin the autumn, which is when thisshrub is most obvious.

CollectionIdeally, gather fruits beforethey are fully ripe, red andsoft, otherwise they canbecome a bit mushy. Collectthe fruits by hand picking orstripping branches.

Storage/StratificationStore fruit in polythene bagsuntil over-ripe or rotten.Separate flesh from seeds andclean in water. Because oftheir variable germinationtime, they are difficult tostratify in the usual way.

41

(Viburnum opulus)Guelder Rose - Caorchon

SowingInstead, sow seedsimmediately after cleaning inseed trays or a shelteredseedbed and cover with 2cmlight soil. Never allow themto dry out. Germination isvariable, erratic andunpredictable and someseedlings may not emerge for3 springs following sowing orthey may germinate straightaway!

Line out 15 - 20 cm apart thefollowing autumn afteremergence.


CollectionHawthorn is abundant inmost areas. Haws should becollected as soon as they areripe (use gloves).

StratificationRemove the pith from aroundthe stone by hand or byrubbing with a heavy objecton a flat surface. Stratify for16 months. If seed is notstratified, but sown straightaway, it will not germinateuntil the second, or even thirdspring.

42

SowingStratified seeds should besown thinly in nursery rowsand the resulting seedlings leftfor 1 - 2 years until ready totransplant and grow for afurther 1 - 2 years beforesetting out in permanentsites.

(Crataegus monogyna)Hawthorn - Sceach gheal

Hawthorn or white thorn was planted in hedges throughoutour countryside. Its sweet smelling 'May' blossom is a featurein that month, and in autumn and winter the deep red hawscolour the bare twigs. They are among the berries most favouredby birds. Only untrimmed hawthorn can flower and fruitfreely, but hedges have to be cut to keep them stock proof.

Hawthorn hedges may be trimmed regularly, or left for severalyears and then laid by cutting part way through the main stemsand laying these horizontally through the hedge. Even oldhawthorn hedges will regenerate if trunks are cut back to baseand left to sprout again, but these must be fenced off so thatfarm livestock cannot reach the tasty young shoots and eatthem.

Like many other shrubs, hawthorn also grows in woodlandwhere there is enough light - in open glades, along 'rides'through the woodland, or along the edge. A single tree maybe left in a field as a 'fairy thorn', especially where there maybe an archaeological site.

May blossom


43

(Lonicera periclymenum)Honeysuckle - Féithleann

(Hedera helix)Ivy - Eidhneán

A climber rather than a shrub,honeysuckle is a commoncomponent of native deciduouswoodlands. The heads of pinkand golden trumpet shapedflowers have a powerful sweetscent attractive to moths,which take the nectar. Theflowers mature to bright redberries that are much enjoyed

by birds such as coal tits.Honeysuckle may be grownon a fence or over deadtimber, or up the wall of abuilding with the help of wiresupports. It may be cut backand trimmed hard in a hedgewithout ill effects.Honeysuckle will grow fromberries and also from

cuttings. Best of all is to 'layer'a branch i.e. peg it down intothe soil while still attached tothe parent plant - it will sproutroots and may then be cut offand transplanted.


Another climber, this oneevergreen and self supporting,and so even better thanhoneysuckle for screeningunattractive fences andbuildings. Ivy produces its paleyellow flowers in winter, foodfor the few winter-flyinginsects, and its berries ripen inspring when they are animportant food for blackbirds

and thrushes.

A good wildlife plant, it may

need to be controlled in

woodland. Ivy is not a parasite

and will not directly kill a tree,

but its sheer weight may make

a tree more liable to wind blow.

Ivy grows easily from

berries and small

rooted branches may

also be transplanted.

44

PropagationJuniper will grow from itsberries but is easily grown fromcuttings.

An unusual shrub found in rocky areas, especially on theBurren and in West Donegal, and often at woodland edges.One of our few native evergreens, juniper is generally foundon limestone. It will thrive in other soils and could be introducedto areas outside its natural distribution, however, this may notbe considered desirable. In good conditions it may grow to besmall tree size.

Like holly, juniper is evergreen and bears flowers of differentsexes on different plants. The bushes are small and usually lowgrowing, the fruit black, and it can be grown from seed. Theberries are used commercially to flavour gin.


Juniper - Aiteal(Juniperus communis)

Juniper growing on limestone, Co Donegal.

CollectionCollect the brightly colouredfruits in autumn either bypicking or gently shaking thetree.

Treatment/StratificationDiscard the pink fruit andgently rub off the orange seedcoat by hand before sowing.This is tedious but means thatseeds may be sown straightaway and germination is morereliable than afterstratification. However, if youhave a lot of seed and handpreparation is too timeconsuming, the seeds shouldbe stratified for six months.

45

(Euonymous europaeus)Spindle - Feoras

Another bush more common on limestone soils though itis tolerant of a range of non-acid soils. It shares its mostcommon areas of distribution with the guelder rose.

It is an inconspicuous shrub with pale bark, smooth and pointedleaves, and small pale flowers. Young twigsare green and four sided. It is the fruitsthat are amazingly colourful with brightpink cases that split open to reveal hardorange seeds. It will grow from seed butmay also be propagated by cuttings. Thehard pale wood was used for makingspindles for spinning wheels and looms -hence the name.


SowingSow immediately aftercollection or in Marchfollowing stratification. Coverwith a thin layer of coarsesand. Germination isextremely variable. Wait andhope!

Propagation

Spindle may also bepropagated from cuttingsalthough it is not very readyto root (see advice for holly).

Chapter 4 - Growing trees and shrubs

cell is now also available.Rootrainers arrive flat andopened out. They should beclosed and placed in36x21x9cm trays ready forfilling and sowing. Thenumber of books per trayvaries between 8 and 14.

3. Another good wayCollect your seeds, stratify asnecessary (see advice for eachspecies) and sow in shallowseed trays using a peatsubstitute potting compost.

Once these have germinatedand grown a little, pick outindividual seedlings - handlewith care, preferably liftingthem by the cotyledons, thefirst green 'leaves' - andtransplant into plug trays(available from gardensuppliers) one seedling ineach plug section.

Keep the seed trays and plugtrays in your unheatedgreenhouse or poly tunnel.

In summer, the seed traysshould be taken outside toharden off for at least onemonth. They are then readyto be planted on site. Theuse of plug traysseems to giveseedlings a reallygood fast growingstart.

Growing trees and shrubs

47

Setting up a Small TreeNursery.Setting up a mini tree nursery,whether in your back gardenor on a window sill, is aparticularly interesting andrewarding pastime. Before youstart, decide how much timeand space you want todedicate to the project. Yournursery may initially be a fewflower pots or seed trays, asection of vegetable plot orflower bed, or in a preparedseed bed.

Small Scale Tree Rearing1. Just a few treesMost people start on a smallscale - even a yoghurt pot ona window sill. You need somesimple pots, preferably withsmall holes for drainage or aseed tray. The soil should befree-draining; most garden soilis improved by mixing in sandand compost or leaf mould,or you can buy pottingcompost (referably peat-freeto save our bogs).

Fill your pots with compostand sow a few seeds not toodeep (see advice for eachspecies). Keep them sheltered,not too hot or cold, andremember to water them ona regular basis.

Once the seeds germinate,keep watering and weedcarefully once you are surewhich are weeds and whichare young trees!

After a few months, the treeswill outgrow their pots andwill need more space anddepth for their roots. At thatstage you will need to plantthem out into a prepared bedor into larger pots/containers.The young trees could evenbe moved into cleared groundat their final site, so long asthe young plants will belooked after - weeded, wateredand protected from beingeaten. This is good for speciessuch as holly, blackthorn andgorse, which are not verysuccessful when transplantedas larger seedlings.

If your aim is to producerelatively small numbers ofgood young trees, and youhave accesss to a coolgreenhouse or poly tunnel,here are two good systems.

2. A tried and tested systemRootrainers. These aremoulded plastic pots or cellswhich come four or five to theset, or 'book'. Because thebooks are hinged and can beopened out, it is possible toobserve soil condition androot systems without harmingthe seedlings and to removethe plants easily when theyare ready. The lengthwisegrooves in each cell promotestraight root development.They range in size from 8-20cm in depth and 65-350mlin volume; a 1000ml-volume

Your first 'nursery' may be a few pots on thekitchen window sill.

Rootrainer (Sherwood size) 'book'shown opened out.

8 Sherwood-size Rootrainer 'books'fitted into tray, shown after sowing.

CHAPTER FOUR GROWING TREES AND SHRUBS

48

4. Plant 'on the spot'.There is one more option,which is that seed may besown directly on the sitewhere you want your final treeor bush. This avoids anyproblem with moving youngplants. Prepare the site as youwould any seed bed and plantseveral seeds - this shouldensure that at least onegerminates successfully. Lateryou can select out the bestyoung plant to grow on, andmove the others.

Remember to put in a markerand ideally cover the sites withwire or other mesh to markand protect it. Keep watering- don't forget about your tinyseedlings!

Larger S cale TreeRearing.If you have suitable land, andenough time and energy, youmay consider a full scale treenursery. Even a small nurserycan yield hundreds of treeseach year.

Choosing the SiteWhen choosing the site, keepin mind these importantfactors.

1. The site should not be waterlogged - a raised bedwith coarse grit incorporated in the soil will provide adequate drainage.

2. Water will be required forsummer watering.

3. Shelter is needed from the morning sun and strong wind on frozen foliage. Do not use an east facing slope.

4. Protection against morning sun on dewy leaves is essential as the scorch can kill seedlings.

5. Protection from dogs, children, footballs and rabbits. If a rabbit prooffence is required use a31 mm gauge wire and bury the bottom 30 cm under ground level.

Site Preparation.Preparation of the site canbe the most time consumingpart of growing trees fromseed, but it is absolutelyworthwhile. The better thesite preparation, the betterthe germination and growthof young trees.

Once the site has beenselected, it must be clearedof grass and weeds. Removethe grass by paring away thetop three inches of soil andgrass roots. Stack theseshallow sods off to the sideas next year this will be a finecompost for a seed bed.Perennial weeds such asdandelion and dock must beremoved from the soil,otherwise they will grow upthrough your seedlings,smothering and starvingthem.

Dig over the soil to aminimum depth of 25 cm,removing larger stones andweed roots. If this is done inthe autumn the winter frostwill break up the soil further.Should the soil be heavy andsticky, dig in some sharp sandor grit. This will aid drainageand render the soil moreworkable. If the soil is sandyincorporate well rotted oldmanure or compost to give afirmer texture and help itretain moisture. With the siteselected, fenced and dug over,

Acorns are fine for planting on the spot.

Compacting soil removesany air pockets.

Digging the bed.

Raking is very important.

The finished bed ready to plant.


Using seed trays to germinate rowan.

49

the next stage is the growingbeds. This is simply soil raisedto approx. 10 cm aboveground level, flat topped,about 1m wide and as long asyour enclosure allows. Be sureto leave a narrow path aroundeach raised bed for easy accessand weeding.

Shape the bed by putting astring line where you wantthe edge of the bed to be. Cuta flat bottomed channel downone side of the line anddeposit the soil on theopposite side of the line. Apath has just been created!Shape the bed. Level the soil. Walk over the surface of thebed on your heels, or roll it,then rake the bed's surface.Repeat this process until thesurface is firm and fine. Thiswill ensure the bed does notsink and sag due to therebeing air pockets present. Youare now ready to plant seed.

If the bed is made earlier inthe season, weeds can beeliminated before sowing inthe autumn or spring. Somenurseries use herbicide and/orsoil pesticides.

Planting SeedDibblingHazel and oak are suitable forthis method. Large seed canbe planted by piercing a hole,with a round nosed dibber,twice the depth of the seed.Drop the seed into the holeand cover with sieved sand orsoil. Firmly compact themedium to eliminate airpockets.

BroadcastingSmall seeds are planted in asimilar manner to grass seed,i.e. scattered evenly by handon the surface of the seed bed.This is then followed byrolling the bed and coveringthe seed with 2mm sand.Birch is sometimes uncoveredas it is light sensitive. Treatstratified seed in the same wayas seed sown fresh.

If weeds appear on the seedbed gently remove them bysnipping or slicing the rootunder the soil surface with asharp knife. If you have anydoubts as to whether it is aweed or a tree postponeweeding!

ProtectionSeeds and seedlings arevulnerable to being eaten. Inthe seed bed they can beprotected by erecting a frameover the lines of seeds/seedlings.

Small mesh wire netting may

be used or better still a fabricmesh such as Mallardworthblack 1in. stretch netting.This can be spread over wirehoops well down into theground and pinned down atthe sides with short stakes.It is necessary to have a goodseal at the side and ends ofthe rows, especially if miceare your problem!

Lining OutAfter one year in the seedbed, the small tree seedlingswill have grown substantially.They will appear crowded,especially if they have grownfrom small seeds which wereoriginally broadcast quitethickly.

It is necessary to move themon to the transplant bed,prepared and weeded asrecommended in 'sitepreparation'. The little treeseedlings should be liftedgently from the seedbedwithout damaging the roots,and transferred as quickly aspossible to their new area. Ifthey have to be left for a shorttime, cover the roots - dampnewspaper is a good idea.

"Dibbling".

Broadcasting with birch seed.

Rolling the broadcast bed.

Lining out.


50

Make a hole with a 'dibber'for each seedling, place itgently in the hole and presssoil around to the same levelas it was growing before - toodeep or too shallow will checkgrowth and may even causethe young tree to fail. Plantin a straight row and leaveregular spaces of about 30cm.between seedlings - which willmake clear why this processof planting on is known as'lining out'.

If the seeds were originallysown well spaced out - acorns,for example - the tree seedlingsmay be left for two years inthe seed bed and then linedout.

The transfer of tree seedlingsis normally carried out in theautumn and winter, not inspring when they are activelygrowing and even morevulnerable to disturbance.There is one exception - hollyseedlings actually like to bemoved in the summer, whenthe soil has warmed up!

Root PruningWhen tree seedlings have beengrown under crowdedconditions in the seed bed,their root systems may be too'up and down' and notsufficiently all-round. Toencourage bushy root growth,which leads to a healthier andmore stable tree in the longterm, young seedlings may be'root pruned'.

Root pruning is carried outwhen the young seedling islifted from the seed bed. Theroots are trimmed, using largescissors or secateurs, justcutting across the largest rootsso that the tree is left with amore even length of mainroots. This encourages thecut roots to send out sideroots, in the same way that acut branch above ground willsend out side shoots.

In commercial forestrynurseries the young treeseedlings have their rootspruned by a cutter bar whenthey are still in place in theseed bed. On a smaller scale,we can lift and trim roots ofa small bunch of tree seedlingsheld together, but you maywish to carry out a precisionjob on each individualseedling - it is up to you howmuch time you wish to spendon this task.

Root pruning is not necessaryfor seedlings which have beengrown in individual pots orplug trays, but it does assistseedlings grown on a largernursery scale to make goodgrowth subsequently. Theresult is a large root surfaceand a comparatively smallshoot. This favourableroot/shoot ratio is ideal fortransplants. It may looksevere but it is for their owngood in the end!

Looking after yourSeedlings.Attention must be paid totheir general state ofdevelopment. Check formildew and aphid infestationregularly, and use chemicalsif you need to. Oak andhawthorn are especiallyvulnerable to grey leaf mouldinfections.

Water beds if it has not beenraining for a few days. (Dailyfor birch when very young).

In the autumn defoliationoccurs and dormancycommences. This is the timeto transplant seedlings -gently.

At the base of each seedlingthere is a colour difference.This is the planting depth foreach seedling.

If planted too deep theseedling will die.

Dibber or trowel planting isused at this stage. Do not"corkscrew" the roots into thehole or the tree roots willbecome twisted and distorted.

The planting season generallyfinishes at the end of March.Seedlings can be moved atother times if they are re-planted rapidly without thefine roots drying out.

Protection for hazel is vital tokeep out mice & birds.

Root pruning promotes healthy growth.

The colour difference at the base of a seedlingmarks the depth for planting.


Growing from cuttings

Most species may be grownfrom seed, but we havementioned some whichpropagate easily from cuttingsor by layering shoots: theseare forms of vegetativereproduction. Unlike sexualreproduction from seeds,which is the union of pollen(male) and ovule (female),vegetative reproduction allowsno genetic mixing or diversity.All the young plants aregenetically identical to theparent.

Cuttings are often used forgarden species which may notbe fertile, for example plantswhich do not grow naturallyin our climate, or when it isimportant that all plantsshould be exactly the same.

For some of our native species,it is the easiest way topropagate large numbers andis especially used for willows.To take cuttings first cut ayoung branch, one or twoyears growth, from yourparent tree or bush. This isgenerally done in autumn orwinter.

A strong sharp pair of prunersis essential for good qualitycuttings. In a nursery set-upthis task is carried out indoorson wet days when other workwould be awkward. A branchor shoot of willow can be upto 2.5 metres long in one or

51

The 'pegs' can be plantedstraight away. The flat base endis pushed into the soil to halfor two thirds the depth of the'peg'. Mulching is easy withcuttings as it can be carried outbefore planting if required (seesection on Care of YoungTrees). Cuttings can be 'heeledin' as a storage method ifrequired: damp coarse sand isideal for this.

Note: The use of one pointedend and one flat surface isgenerally accepted, but somenursery men use them theother way round - the pointedend is pushed into the soil soyou are pressing on the flatend, which is pushed in at anangle so that it will shed rain.It doesn't matter which wayyou choose to do it, so long asyou get the cutting the rightway up, i.e. with buds ready togrow upwards!

two years and therefore tenor so cuttings from each oneis possible. Each branch isremoved by executing astraight cut, just below a bud,at its base.Next any old leaf growth orside branches are clearedneatly from the shoot.Growth thinner than pencilthickness at the top of thebranch is removed, being toothin to be suitable. Cuttingscan be from 15 - 24 cms long,making sure each one has atleast three buds on it.

Proceeding from the base ofthe branch upwards a straightcut is made just under a bud;then six or nine inches up aslanted cut is made just abovea bud. Following each top cuta short piece of waste woodis removed when moving upto the next base cut. Theslanted cut at the top serves afew purposes among whichare -

1. making it obvious which is the bottom endwhen planting.

2. prevents water lying on top of the cutting whichcan cause rot.

Cutting a shoot.

"Pegging out".

Willow


Chapter 5 - Planting trees

Planting trees

53

When and how to plantMost tree and shrub seedlingswill spend their first year inthe seedbed - more ifgermination is delayed orgrowth very variable or slow.After replanting in thetransplant bed, where theyhave more space, the trees maybe left for a further one or twoseasons, depending on growthand size, which is usuallyrelated to the type of tree i.e.the species.

Some species transplant easily- others, such as gorse, hollyand blackthorn do nottransplant well and are bestsown on site or moved to theirfinal site as very smallseedlings. Moving young treesis always stressful for them -the faster it can be done thebetter, without damaging thetiny root hairs or allowingthem to dry out.

The normal planting seasonextends from October till theend of March. Do nottransplant in heavy frost, andtake extra care in cool, dryingeast winds.

Transplanting is stressful forall young plants. They shouldbe replanted in prepared soil,then well firmed in at thesame level as they were beforei.e. the same position betweenroots and trunk - there willbe a colour change to guideyou. Dig a good sized holeand spread the roots out, notleaving them squashed ortwisted.

If your young trees have beengrown in pots or containers,they may be left until they areolder and planted out keepingthe complete mass of rootsand soil together. Do not leavethem in pots too long, or theroots become cramped andthere is real growth checkbefore the roots spread out intheir new site, which allowsgrowth to begin again.

We tend to think of roots asbig strong parts of the treewhich anchor it to theground, but as with otherplants, it is the fine delicateroot tips and root hairs whichdo the main job of absorbingwater and nutrients - if theyare damaged or cut, the treecannot grow as well. (Whenroot pruning only the longestroots are cut, leaving the sideroots to form a healthy massof new rootlets whichincreases this absorbtivearea).

If the trees are left for fouryears or more in their nurserybeds, they get beyond thestage of easy transplantingand the chances of movingthem successfully decreasesharply. Some species aremore tolerant than others.Birch should be movedyoung, oak and rowan seemto be able to survive latermoves.

The same principles apply tocuttings, which should bemoved carefully taking soilwith the roots if possible.Willows are often planted onthe final site, directly intowet ground, which meansthey do not have to be movedat all - the easiest way!Always water young trees andcuttings soon after re-planting.

The root hairs absorb the nutrients.

CHAPTER FIVE PLANTING

54

Where to plant yourtreesYou may be growing treesfrom seed with a clear idea ofwhere you want to plantthem. In many ways this isideal, as you can choose thespecies most suitable for thesite you have in mind. Youmay be growing trees in orderto supply other people,schools, community groups,or local nature reserves, inwhich case local provenancehas a particular value.

Always check that the areayou have in mind is notimportant for conservation asit is, in which case trees mightactually detract from thewildlife value. Peatland andbogs should mainly be leftunplanted.

We have tried to suggestwhich species are moresuitable for small spaces orgardens, where you will onlyneed a few trees or even onespecimen tree. Even if youonly want one to last, it isworth planting several andthen selecting out the bestwhile transplanting the rest.

You need to plan for how longa tree will last and how muchit will grow - do not plantclose to walls, buildings orhistoric monuments, as allthese may be damaged by treeroots. Always over estimatethe space trees will need aboveground and below, becauseroots spread beyond thecanopy in order to collect raindripping off leaves all aroundthe tree. Once planted, treeroots should not be disturbed.

Care of young treesYoung trees do best if they aregiven a good start. After allyour care in collecting seedand rearing young trees, it isall too easy to lose them oncethe time comes to plant themout in their final site. To avoidthis disheartening outcome,spend some time on sitepreparation just as you did forthe seeds and keep an eye onthe young trees.

Good soil can be improved bycultivation, thorough diggingand mixing in compost orfarmyard manure if available.Thick grass and weeds shouldbe cleared from the plantingsite, either by cultivation oruse of herbicide, which if it islong-lasting will also preventre-growth around the youngtree.

Planting into good soil,already cleared of othervegetation, is ideal. If trees areto be planted in sub soil orrubble, provide them with

good top soil in a pit aroundthe roots to get them started.If you have to plant intodense grassland, clear or killa small area before you putthe trees in place.Use of a mulch - dark plasticor organic matter such aswood chips - around thetrunk will keep the groundclear of competing vegetationand help conserve moisture. Even in Ireland, many youngtrees die from lack ofmoisture. Water young treesat planting and keep onwatering during the firstsummer in dry weather.

Grass and other small plantscompete for water andnutrients.The worst thingyou can do is to cut grassaround young trees as thiswill encourage the grass tore-grow and take even morefrom the soil. Never usestrimmers near trees - theyare most effective at 'ringbarking' small trees so killingthem.

So long as growth of grassand other plants is not toovigorous, trees shouldoutgrow the competition.But remember to cleararound trunks while they aregetting started, to allow thetrees to grow straight andtrue. If you care for your treesin the early stages, they willrepay you by growing well.

Trees planted with guards and supports.

Remember to loosen the ties.

Ring barking - strimmers kill trees!


55

Trees do not generally needfertiliser - after all, they arenatural vegetation and shouldbe able to grow naturally. Ifyou do think it is needed, lownitrogen types like potatofertiliser are best.

They do need the soil to suitthem: alder and willow cantolerate very wet conditions,birch grows on acid soils,shrubs such as spindle, guelderrose and buckthorn seem toprefer limestone soils, rowanand gorse need well drainedground.

Always consider the'appropriateness of place'when considering what treesto plant where. Seek advice ifyou are unsure.

Planning your woodlandIf you are fortunate to haveenough ground to plant anumber of trees, forconservation reasons youshould aim to create awoodland as close as possibleto natural woods in your area.Take a look around, and seewhat grows there naturally.You have probably done thisto begin with, in order toidentify trees from which tocollect seed.

Some woods consist of veryfew tree species. Birch woodson acid soils, ash woods onlimestone, are examples ofwoods which are almost singlespecies. If you are planting adifficult site, very wet, or withacid soil, your choice of treeswill be restricted.

However, on better soils youhave more choice. Aim for amixture of trees to give finalheight such as oak and ash,with shrub species for variety- hazel, hawthorn, etc. Allowplenty of space between treesand shrubs, because shrubscannot thrive in heavy shade.If there are any trees andshrubs present on the site tobegin with, try to keep theseand incorporate them in thenew planting. They mayprovide shelter for your newyoung trees.

If you have poor spindly treeson site, for example ash orhawthorn, these can alwaysbe coppiced - cut back to thestump and allowed to re-grow.This will give young bushygrowth and re-juvenates thetrees.

Ideally, a wood should havetrees, shrubs, and floweringplants below.

If you are planting next toan existing wood, thewoodland plant species willnaturally colonise. Areasunder trees are increasinglyshaded as the trees grow, sothat meadow grasses andplants are shaded out andonly early flowering or shadetolerant woodland specieswill be able to thrive. Youcan speed this process bytransferring a few spadefullsof woodland soil in wintertime, complete with rootsand bulbs. Or ask permissionto take some plants fromanother existing wood onsimilar soil: bluebells, woodsorrel, wood anemone, lessercelandine etc.

Planting young trees closetogether encourages bettergrowth rates and straighttrunks, but it does meanthinning in 15 - 20 yearstime. However, it is possibleto plant in several groups,leaving open land between ifyou can afford the space, orto leave generous open gladesor rides within a singleplanted area.

Wood anemones - a beautiful wood is notcomplete without a carpet of spring flowers.

A mixed woodland alwaysprovides the most variety of colour and wildlife.


56

If you leave more spacebetween trees you will haveto do more weeding to ensuregood growth, but it willreduce the necessity to thinout your planting in futureyears - people dislikedestroying trees they havegrown and planted, but thetimber may be useful forfirewood, fencing, etc.

The purpose of open gladesis not only to allow extra roomfor tree growth, but also toencourage plants that needthe extra light. These attractinsects, birds, and mammals.Research has shown that it isthe woodland edge which ismost used by birds rather thanthe centre of thick woodland.If you walk along forest pathsyou will often see traces ofbadgers and foxes, althoughtheir setts or earths may behidden within the wood.

Tree Shelters and PestsTree shelters are made fromvarious materials in a varietyof forms, square or rounded:some are manufactured locally.Shelters are used as protectionagainst wind and weather, as

a marker to remind you aboutsmall trees, and to deterrabbits, a common cause ofdestruction. Shelters are veryworthwhile for a few youngtrees. Oak seems to benefitparticularly, but some species,such as birch, do not thrivein shelters.

If you are planting a largerarea, it is worth erecting rabbitproof fencing around theperimeter rather than buyinglots of tree shelters. Hares mayalso be a problem, and theyrequire 15 cm shelters ratherthan the usual 10 cm toprotect the trees.

If you have deer locally, youmay have real difficulty inestablishing trees. One way isto plant one of theirfavourites, such as willow, ina dense band all around theoutside of the planted area -this is a 'sacrifice crop' whichshould protect your finalwoodland in the centre. Deerare not generally a problemin gardens here, but they dorestrict regeneration ofwoodland where they arepresent, and will feed somedistance from their homeforest or estates.

Grey squirrels can be aproblem and are very difficultto exclude!

Insect pests have to bewatched for in nurserysituations, but once your treesare planted out as woodland,

natural control and a balanceof pests/predators shouldbecome established.

Record KeepingDo keep records of all thatyou do - when and where youcollect the seeds, how youtreat them, how well theygerminate and grow. Therecords will prove valuableto you in accumulatingknowledge and may provideuseful guidance for otherpeople.

Perhaps because ourwoodland tradition in Irelandis not strong, we have lostsome of the older skill inrearing trees. This guidereflects the experience ofseveral groups andindividuals, but we all havea lot more to learn - you canmake a real contribution.

Trees need protection from grazing deer.

Remember to label your seedlings!

Rabbit-proof fencing: netting overlappedhorizontally in the direction of attack.


Sources of FurtherWritten Information

Sources of Further Written Information

59

An Irish Flora 1996 D.A. Webb. Dundalgan Press Ltd, Dundalk.

Trees of Ireland: 1993 Charles Nelson & Wendy Walsh. Lilliput Press,native & naturalised Dublin. Has a section on propagation for each species.

The Irish Landscape F. Mitchell. London, Collins.

The Irish Woods Since 1971 E M McCracken.Tudor Times

ENFO Action Sheets - Tree Planting, Hedge Management, Managing Small Woods, Basic Tree Surveys, Trees and Development Sites.

Trees on the Farm 1992 Michael Bulfin. Tree Council of Ireland.

Tree Projects for Schools Richard Webb, An Foras Forbatha.

Wild Woods of Ireland Catherine O’Connell, Irish Peatland Conservation Council.

Growing Broadleaves Silvicultural Guidelines for Ash, Sycamore, Wild Cherry, Beech and Oak in Ireland. 1998 Padraic M. Joyce, Coford.

Native Trees & Forests David Hickie, Gill & Macmillan, 2002.of Ireland

Releasing Quality Wood Silvicultural Guidelines for Wood Production in the context of from Ireland’s Native the Native woodland Scheme. Woodlands of Ireland. DublinWoodlands 2005 Little, D.J. & Cross J.R.

Woodlands of Ireland Native Woodland Scheme Information Notes. In support of the 2007 native woodland Scheme. Woodlands of Ireland. Dublin

SOURCES OF FURTHER WRITTEN INFORMATION

Useful AddressesCOFORDwww.coford.ieArena House,Arena Road,Sandyford,DUBLIN 18 Tel: 01 213 0725 Fax: 01 213 0611Email: [email protected]

Coillte – The Irish Forestry Boardwww.coillte.ieDublin Road,Newtownmountkennedy,CO. WICKLOWTel: 01 201 1111 Fax: 01 201 1199Email: [email protected]

Crannwww.crann.ieP.O.Box 860,Celbridge, Co KildareTel: 01 627 5075Email: [email protected]

Forest Servicewww.agriculture.gov.ieDepartment of Agriculture & Food,Johnstown Castle Estate,CO. WEXFORDTel: 053 91 60200 Lo Call: 1890 200223Fax: 053 91 43834/5/6

National Parks & Wildlife Servicewww.heritageireland.ieEly Court,Ely Place,DUBLIN 2Tel:01 6472300

ENFOwww.enfo.ie17 St Andrew’s StDUBLIN 2Tel:01 6793144Email:[email protected]

Environmental Protection Agencywww.epa.ieP.O.Box 3000,Johnstown Castle Estate,CO. WEXFORDTel: 053 60600 Fax: 053 60699Email:[email protected]

Forest Servicewww.agriculture.gov.ie3 West, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Kildare St.,DUBLIN 2Tel: 01 607 2000Fax: 01 607 2545

60

SOURCES OF FURTHER WRITTEN INFORMATION

Useful Addresses cont’d

Groundworkwww.groundwork.ieSigmund Business Centre93a Lagan RoadDublin Industrial EstateGlasnevinDUBLIN 11Tel 01 8602839Email: [email protected]

Heritage Councilwww.heritagecouncil.ieKILKENNYCo. KilkennyTel: 01 7770777Email: [email protected]

Irish Deer SocietyC/o Killarney U.D.C.Town HallKILLARNEYTel: 064 31023

Irish Forest Industry ChainIBEC84/86 Baggot StreetDUBLIN 2Tel: 01 6601011 Fax: 01 6601717

Irish Peatland Conservation Councilwww.ipcc.ieLullymore,Rathdangan,CO KILDARETel: 045 860133 Fax: 045 860481Email: [email protected]

Irish Timber Council1 HeatherbrookSt. Marlton RoadWICKLOWCo. WicklowTel: 0404 62488 Fax: 0404 61111Email: [email protected]

Irish Timber Growers Association17 Castle Street, Dalkey,CO. DUBLINTel: 01 235 0988 Fax: 01 235 0416E-mail: [email protected]

Irish Tree SocietyTullynallyCASTLEPOLLARDCo. Westmeath.

Irish Wildlife Trustwww.iwt.ieSigmund Business Centre93a Lagan RoadDublin Industrial EstateGlasnevinDUBLIN 11Tel: 01 8602839Email: [email protected]

Society of Irish ForestersEnterprise Centre,BALLINTOGHER,Co. SligoTel: 071 9164434 Fax: 071 9134904Email: [email protected]

TeagascKinseally Research CentreMalahide RoadDUBLIN 17Tel: 018460644 Fax: 01 8460524

Tree Council of Irelandwww.treecouncil.ieSeismograph House,Rathfarnham Castle,DUBLIN 14Tel: 01 4931313 Fax: 01 4931317Email: [email protected]

Woodlands of IrelandSeismograph House,Rathfarnham Castle,DUBLIN 14Tel: 087 668 5823Email: [email protected]

VOICE – Voice of Irish Concernfor the Environmentwww.voice.buz.org9 Upper Camden Street,DUBLIN 2Tel: 01 642 5741Email: [email protected]

61

GLOSSARY

Afforestation: the growing of trees in an area that has lacked forest cover for a very long timeor has never been forested.

Atmosphere: the whole mass of air surrounding the earth.

Atmospheric: material found in the atmosphere.

Ancient Woods: those occupying sites that have been wooded continuously for severalhundred years at least since the time when the first reliable maps were made.

Biodiversity: a concept that refers to the variety of all life forms at all levels including geneticdiversity, species diversity and landscape diversity within an ecosystem. Maintaining biodiversityis crucial to sustaining the interrelated web of life of any ecosystem.

Biomass: the dry weight of all organic matter in a given ecosystem. Also refers to plant materialthat can be burnt as fuel.

Broadleaves: generally deciduous hardwood trees. Their leaves are flattened and usually broadin shape with a network vein pattern and are mostly light green and soft to the touch. Oak andash are examples of broadleaves.

Canopy: the forest cover of branches and foliage formed by tree crowns.

Canopy closure: the lessening of space between the crowns of trees as they spread sidewaysor laterally. This increases canopy cover.

Carbohydrates: organic compounds such as sugars and starches composed of carbon, hydrogenand oxygen.

Carbon dioxide (CO2): a gas that is present in the atmosphere and is formed duringrespiration. An essential ingredient in the process of photosynthesis.

Community: all the living organisms in an area at a particular time that affect one anotheras a part of the food web or through their various influences on the physical environment.

Conifers: evergreen, softwood trees. All conifers produce seed bearing cones. Their leaves areneedle shaped or arranged as scales along the shoot and are usually dark green and hard to thetouch. Pines, firs and spruces are all conifers.

Cross pollination: the transfer of pollen from the male part of one flower to the female partof another.

Deciduous: shedding leaves at the onset of winter. Most broadleaves are deciduous.

Disperse: to spread seed away from the parent tree.

Evergreen: keeping leaves throughout the year.

Evolution: the process of development from a simple to a more complex form.

Fungi: a mushroom, toadstool or one of the similar plants such as mould. They have nochlorophyll and obtain food from living or dead organic matter.

Germination: the beginnings of growth or the putting forth of shoots.

Glossary

Habitat: any place or type of place where an organism or community of organismsnormally lives and thrives.

Ice Age: period when much of the northern hemisphere was covered with glaciers.The last ice age lasted roughly from 100,000BC to 15,000 BC.

Lichens: a combination of fungus and alga growing together.

Native forests: the term for the original natural forests of a region, even if theysubsequently become semi-natural in their reliance on some form of human intervention

Parasite: an animal or plant that lives in or on another organism and gainsnourishment from it.

Photosynthesis: the chemical process that occurs in the leaf by which water andcarbon dioxide are combined to produce carbohydrates and oxygen.

Pollination: fertilisation by pollen. The transfer of pollen from the male organwhere it is formed to the receptive region of the female organ.

Provenance: the place of origin of a species, subspecies or variety.

Re-colonisation: the reestablishment of vegetation on an area which has beenstripped of plants.

Semi-natural Woods: woods that have a high degree of naturalness. Composedprimarily or wholly of local native species of trees and shrubs that are derived fromnatural regeneration, coppicing or from mature plantations (19th Century or older).Often managed and nearly always influenced by human activities i.e. grazing,fragmentation and underplanting with non-natives. Most are relatively recent inorigin or established by natural colonisation in the last few decades, whilst some aremuch older woodlands.

Suckers: new shoots produced from the base or underground roots of an establishedplant.

Understorey: any plants or shrubs growing under a tree canopy.

Viable: able to live and grow.

62

GLOSSARY

Glossary cont’d

Afforestation grants are available from the Forest Service of the Departmentof the Marine and Natural resources. The precise rates are determinedby the type of land and the species planted.Grants are available under the Native Woodland Scheme, where theemphasis is placed on the conservation and biodiversity of native woodlands.Under the NeighbourWood Scheme, funding is available to support theestablishment or development, by local authorities, of woodlands in ornear centres of population for the purpose of public enjoyment andrecreation.Grants are subject to certain conditions. For further information contactthe Forest Service, Department of the Marine and Natural Resources,Johnstown Castle Estate, Co. Wexford.Tel: 053 60200 LoCall:1890 200 223 Fax 053 43834/5/6www.marine.gov.ie

Grants for Native Woods

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Eng

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lm d

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doe

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wyc

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m.

An

idea

l und

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ory

spec

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Cop

pice

s w

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lera

nt.

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gro

win

g. U

sefu

l in

hedg

es a

nd s

cree

ns. S

hade

tole

rant

. Cop

pice

s w

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Can

be

diff

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est

ablis

h.O

nly

fem

ales

pro

duce

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Exc

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life.

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maj

or c

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Ver

yw

ind

firm

. Ver

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Q.p

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Can

gro

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alti

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asm

all g

arde

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The

bes

t kn

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and

best

love

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our

nat

ive

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fers

.

CO

NS

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VA

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NV

AL

UE

A r

are

spec

ies

nati

ve in

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coun

ties

in I

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the

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iter

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tre

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port

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Ber

ries

goo

d fo

r bi

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ly fl

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ver

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s. G

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nest

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cove

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erri

es e

xcel

lent

for

bird

s.

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s. F

oodp

lant

of t

he g

reen

hai

rstr

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butt

erfly

.

Food

plan

t of

the

bri

mst

one

butt

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.

A v

ery

long

flow

erin

gse

ason

. A

long

frui

ting

seas

on fr

om J

uly

to N

ov.

Food

plan

t of

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mst

one

butt

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SP

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Str

awbe

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Tre

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rish

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Taxu

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Bro

om

Cytis

us s

copa

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lder

Fran

gula

aln

us

TY

PE

E E/F

E/S

E S

PR

EF

ER

RE

D S

ITE

Nut

rien

t ri

ch, w

ell d

rain

ed s

oil

in s

un o

r se

mi-

shad

e.

Pref

ers a

lkal

ine

soils

but

gro

ws i

na

wid

e ra

nge

of s

oils

.Tol

erat

esco

asta

l exp

osur

e, r

ocky

gro

und

and

fair

ly d

amp

site

s

Pref

ers w

ell d

rain

ed a

lkal

ine

soils

.To

lera

tes

shad

e.

Pref

ers

open

, sun

ny c

ondi

tion

s.To

lera

tes

a w

ide

rang

e of

soi

ls.

Can

gro

w in

exp

osed

and

win

dsw

ept

coas

tal c

ondi

tion

s.

Gro

ws

best

on

light

, dry

, aci

dso

ils.

Larg

ely

conf

ined

to

calc

areo

usso

ils.

A sh

rub

of w

et, t

houg

h no

t wat

er-

logg

ed, s

ites

. Gro

ws

on p

eaty

soils

.

UN

SU

ITA

BL

E S

ITE

S

Doe

s no

t lik

e co

ld, d

ryin

gw

inds

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e ve

ry w

et s

ites

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e ve

ry w

etsi

tes.

Doe

s no

t lik

e ve

ry w

etco

ndit

ions

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e w

et c

ondi

tion

s.

Not

tol

eran

t of

hea

vysh

ade

unde

r tr

ees

or o

fve

ry d

ry s

ites

.

IN

SE

CT

SSU

PP

OR

TE

D

4

109

27

CO

MM

EN

TS

Eac

h be

rry

take

s a

full

12m

onth

s to

mat

ure.

The

refo

rebo

th b

loss

om a

nd b

erri

es a

refo

und

at t

he s

ame

tim

e.

Bes

t su

ited

to

hedg

erow

sTo

lera

tes

shad

e.

Poi

sono

us le

aves

, ver

y sl

owgr

owin

g.

Den

se a

nd t

horn

y, m

akes

an

idea

l bar

rier

aga

inst

sto

ck/

peop

le. S

prea

ds b

y su

cker

s.G

ood

for

a he

dge.

Suit

able

for

dry

sunn

yba

nks.

An

unco

mm

on s

hrub

, oft

engr

owin

g at

lake

side

s on

limes

tone

soi

ls.

Onc

e co

mm

on, c

oppi

ced

and

the

woo

d us

ed fo

r fi

rew

ood.

SH

RU

BS

CO

NS

ER

VA

TIO

NV

AL

UE

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s. H

ips

good

for

smal

l bir

ds a

ndsm

all m

amm

als.

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s an

d bi

rds.

An

impo

rtan

t be

rry

crop

.

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s. P

rovi

des

exce

llent

nes

ting

cov

er.

Food

-pla

nt o

f the

gre

enha

irst

reak

but

terf

ly.

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s, fr

uit

good

for

bird

s.

Exc

elle

nt fo

r w

ildlif

e. E

arly

flow

erin

g go

od fo

r in

sect

s.Fr

uits

goo

d fo

r in

sect

s an

dbi

rds.

Goo

d co

ver

for

nest

ing

and

roos

ting

bir

ds.

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s.

SP

EC

IES

Dog

-ro

seRo

sa c

anin

a

Eld

erSa

mbu

cus

nigr

a

Go

rse

Ule

x eu

ropa

eus

Gue

lder

Ro

se V

ibur

num

opu

lus

Haw

tho

rnCr

atae

gus

mon

ogyn

a

Juni

per

Juni

peru

sco

mm

unis

Spi

ndle

Euon

ymus

euro

paeu

s

TY

PE

E/S

E E/S

E/f

L E/S

PR

EF

ER

RE

D S

ITE

Tole

rate

s a w

ide

rang

e of

soils

but

pref

ers

calc

areo

us t

o ne

utra

lso

ils.

Can

tol

erat

e po

or fe

rtili

ty.

Pref

ers

nutr

ient

ric

h so

ils.

Har

dy.

Use

ful f

or e

xtre

mel

ych

alky

sit

es.

Pref

ers

dry

and

neut

ral s

oils

.

Pref

ers

alka

line

fert

ilecl

ay s

oils

. Als

o lik

es n

eutr

al w

etso

ils.

Tole

rate

s a

wid

e ra

nge

of s

oils

.A

mon

g ha

rdie

st a

nd m

ost

adap

tabl

e tr

ees,

gro

win

g w

ell i

nin

dust

rial

are

as/e

xpos

ed s

ites

.

Gro

ws

in r

ocky

are

as. A

lso

onm

ount

ain

heat

hs. V

ery

tole

rant

of e

xpos

ure.

Pref

ers

alka

line

soils

but

tole

rate

sa

wid

e ra

nge

of n

on-a

cid

soils

.G

ood

on c

halk

but

gro

ws

alm

ost

anyw

here

.

UN

SU

ITA

BL

E S

ITE

S

Doe

s no

t lik

e w

et s

oils

or

expo

sed

site

s.

Doe

s no

t lik

e po

orly

dra

ined

heav

y cl

ay s

oils

.D

oes

not

like

shal

low

chal

ky s

oils

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e ac

id s

oils

.

Doe

s no

t th

rive

in w

etsi

tes

or v

ery

acid

soi

ls.

INS

EC

TS

SUP

PO

RT

ED

c100

19

17

149

20

CO

MM

EN

TS

Fam

ous

for

its

rose

-hip

sFo

und

in lo

ng-e

stab

lishe

dhe

dges

and

thi

cket

s.

A c

omm

on s

hrub

aro

und

the

coun

trys

ide.

Ass

ocia

ted

wit

h ol

d re

fuse

tip

s an

dm

idde

ns w

here

it a

ppre

ciat

esth

e ex

tra

nutr

ient

s in

the

soil.

Can

gro

w in

exp

osed

sit

es.

Wit

hsta

nds

salt

y w

inds

.Pr

ovid

es s

helt

er in

coa

stal

area

s.

Usu

ally

foun

d in

hed

ges

or a

t th

e ed

ge o

f fie

lds

and

smal

l woo

ds b

esid

e a

drai

n,al

so o

n in

land

loug

hs.

The

com

mon

est

and

best

hedg

erow

spe

cies

.W

iths

tand

s cu

ttin

g an

dhe

dge-

layi

ng.

Shar

es it

s m

ost

com

mon

area

s of

dis

trib

utio

n w

ith

the

guel

der

rose

. Its

woo

dw

as u

sed

for

mak

ing

spin

dles

for

spin

ning

whe

els.

CO

NS

ER

VA

TIO

NV

AL

UE

Goo

d fo

r in

sect

s, fo

odpl

ant

of t

he h

airs

trea

k bu

tter

fly.

Exc

elle

nt fo

r in

sect

s, e

sp.

late

flow

ers

& fr

uit

for

bird

san

d m

amm

als.

Flow

ers

exce

llent

for

big

mot

hs.

Very

goo

d fo

r in

sect

s as

itis

ver

y la

te-f

low

erin

g. G

ood

nest

ing

site

s. L

ate

berr

ycr

op im

port

ant.

Exc

elle

nt fo

r m

any

form

sof

wild

life,

esp

. ins

ects

&ne

stin

g bi

rds.

Ear

ly fl

ower

sim

port

ant

for

bees

.

see

Will

ow, a

ll.

SP

EC

IES

Asp

enPo

pulu

s tr

emul

a

Bra

mbl

eRu

bus

font

icosa

Ho

neys

uckl

eLo

nice

ra p

eric

lymen

um

Ivy

Hed

era

helix

Will

ow, a

ll

Bay

leav

ed w

illow

Salix

pen

tand

ra

Cre

epin

g w

illow

Salix

rep

ens

TY

PE

E C C C E/f

E

PR

EF

ER

RE

D S

ITE

Suit

able

for

dam

p cl

ay s

oils

.To

lera

tes

wet

con

diti

ons.

Tole

rate

s a

wid

e ra

nge

of s

oils

.

Pref

ers

neut

ral t

o lig

ht a

cid

soils

.

Tole

rate

s a

wid

e ra

nge

of s

oils

.

Pref

er d

amp/

wet

soi

ls.I

deal

for

stre

amba

nks.

Pref

ers

heav

y gr

ound

.

Pref

ers

mou

ntai

n &

wes

t co

ast

site

s.

UN

SU

ITA

BL

E S

ITE

S

Doe

s no

t lik

e ve

ry d

rysi

tes.

Do

not

like

dry

site

s or

acid

soi

ls.

Doe

s no

t lik

e sa

ndy

site

s.

INS

EC

TS

SUP

PO

RT

ED

97 266

CO

MM

EN

TS

Fast

gro

win

g. A

pio

neer

spec

ies

that

can

tol

erat

eha

rsh

cond

itio

ns.

Exc

elle

nt c

over

for

nest

ing

bird

s.

A c

omm

on c

ompo

nent

of

nati

ve d

ecid

ous

woo

dlan

dW

ill g

row

from

ber

ries

/cu

ttin

gs b

ut b

est

of a

ll is

to

‘laye

r’ it

.

A g

ood

wild

life

plan

t. T

here

is a

lot

of d

ebat

e as

to

whe

ther

it n

eeds

to

be

cont

rolle

d in

woo

dlan

d. I

t is

not

a pa

rasi

te o

f tre

es.

Fast

gro

win

g. E

asily

esta

blis

hed

from

cut

ting

s.U

sefu

l for

sta

bilis

ing

rive

ran

d st

ream

ban

ks.

SP

EC

IES

FR

OM

CU

TT

ING

S

CO

NS

ER

VA

TIO

NV

AL

UE

see

Will

ow, a

ll.

see

Will

ow, a

ll.

Nes

t si

tes

for

coot

s an

dgr

ebes

.

see

Will

ow,a

ll.

see

Will

ow,a

ll.

SP

EC

IES

Go

at/P

ussy

will

owSa

lix c

apre

a

Gre

y w

illo

wSa

lix c

iner

ea

Pur

ple

Osi

erSa

lix p

urpu

rea

Osi

erSa

lix v

imin

alis

Sal

lySa

lix a

trocin

erea

Ear

ed w

illow

Salix

aur

ita

TY

PE

E E E E E E

PR

EF

ER

RE

D S

ITE

Tole

rate

s a

wid

e ra

nge

of s

ites

,ev

en g

row

s in

dry

pla

ces.

Pre

fers

dam

p/w

et s

oils

. Ide

al fo

rst

ream

bank

s.

Pref

ers

med

ium

to

wet

sit

es.

Pref

ers

dam

p/w

et s

oils

. Ide

al fo

rth

e w

ater

's e

dge.

Mai

nly

foun

d in

upl

and

site

s.

Pref

ers

limes

tone

or

upla

nd s

ites

.

CO

MM

EN

TS

Foun

d in

woo

dlan

d an

ddr

ier

site

s.

Low

den

se s

truc

ture

mak

esit

goo

d fo

r sc

reen

ing

inw

ette

r si

tes.

A lo

w b

ush

wit

h fi

ne t

wig

s.

Gro

ws

wel

l in

shal

low

stan

ding

wat

er.

A v

ery

smal

l bus

h.

KE

YF

=hig

h fo

rest

tre

e; f

= m

inor

fore

st t

ree

E=e

dge

plan

ts s

uita

ble

for

open

woo

ds,

woo

dlan

d ed

ges

or h

edge

sL

=lon

ers

suit

able

for

spot

pla

ntin

gS

=pla

nts

for

shru

b la

yer

unde

r hi

ghfo

rest

tre

esC

=clim

bers

, will

tol

erat

e sh

ade

INS

EC

TS

SUP

PO

RT

ED

UN

SU

ITA

BL

E S

ITE

S

Do

not

like

dry

site

s or

acid

soi

ls.

Doe

s no

t lik

e dr

y si

tes

orac

id s

oils

.

Hea

lthi

est

on li

mes

tone

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e dr

y si

tes

orac

id s

oils

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e dr

y si

tes

orac

id s

oils

.

Doe

s no

t lik

e dr

y si

tes

orac

id s

oils

.

Sow

in S

prin

g. S

tore

as

dire

cted

in n

otes

.

Spri

ng s

own

seed

mus

t be

pret

reat

ed fo

r 10

mon

ths

befo

re so

win

g in

Mar

ch/A

pril.

Avo

id

Stor

e in

a d

ry se

aled

con

tain

erbe

fore

sow

ing

Mar

ch/e

arly

Apr

il

or a

s A

lder

Stra

tify

for

6 m

onth

s an

dso

w in

Mar

ch/e

arly

Apr

il

Stra

tify

ing

can

be d

elay

edun

til O

ctob

er &

sow

ing

shou

ld b

e in

Feb

/Mar

.

Bes

t str

atifi

ed. E

xtra

ct th

e se

edan

d st

ratif

y st

raig

ht a

way

. Sow

in la

te F

ebru

ary.

AL

DE

RAl

nus

glut

inos

a

AS

HFr

axin

us e

xcel

sior

AS

PE

NPo

pulu

s tr

emul

a

BIR

CH

, SIL

VE

RBe

tula

pen

dula

BIR

CH

, DO

WN

YBe

tula

pub

esce

ns

CH

ER

RY, B

IRD

Prun

us p

adus

CH

ER

RY, W

ILD

Prun

us a

vium

CR

AB

AP

PL

EM

alus

sylv

estr

is

Mar

ch

Apr

il -

May

Mar

ch

May

May

May

-Jun

e

May

June

Sept

embe

ron

war

ds

Sept

embe

ron

war

ds

May

/Jun

e

Sept

embe

r to

Dec

embe

r

Aug

ust

toN

ovem

ber

Aug

ust

Late

Jul

y -

Aug

ust

Oct

ober

No

Seed

col

lect

ed g

reen

in A

ug.

may

be

sow

n im

med

iate

ly, b

utge

rmin

atio

n th

e fo

llow

ing

spri

ng e

rrat

ic.

yes

yes

Can

be

sow

n im

med

iate

ly b

utpr

otec

t fr

om m

ice.

as a

bove

Extr

act t

he se

ed fr

om th

e fr

uit

and

sow

imm

edia

tely

.

Bes

t m

etho

d 3"

root

cut

ting

s.

Pic

k w

hen

stro

bile

s (s

ecti

ons

ofco

ne)

are

open

ing

on t

he t

rees

.fr

om S

epte

mbe

r on

war

ds.

Spri

ng so

wn

seed

will

giv

e m

ore

com

plet

e ge

rmin

atio

n.

Dif

ficu

lt fr

om s

eed.

Col

lect

catk

ins

whe

n w

hite

dow

nap

pear

s.

Pic

k ca

tkin

s sh

ortly

bef

ore

they

ripe

n an

d w

hen

they

are

sti

llin

tact

.

as a

bove

Col

lect

from

the

tre

e w

hen

the

frui

t is

bla

ck, b

efor

e th

e bi

rds!

It is

bes

t to

cle

an t

he s

eeds

of

all p

ulp

and

juic

e as

soo

n as

poss

ible

.

Col

lect

bef

ore

the

bird

s! S

eeds

shou

ld b

e ke

pt in

an

airt

ight

cont

aine

r in

a co

ol p

lace

bet

wee

nth

e ti

me

of e

xtra

ctio

n an

dso

win

g or

str

atif

icat

ion.

Seed

lings

vul

nera

ble

to fr

ost

beca

use

they

ger

min

ate

earl

y.

TR

EE

S

2-3

3-5 - 1-3

1-3

1-3

1-3

2-4

INT

ER

VA

LB

ET

WE

EN

GO

OD

SE

ED

CR

OP

S(Y

EA

RS

)

SP

EC

IES

TIM

E O

FF

LO

WE

RS

TIM

E O

F SE

ED

CO

LL

EC

TIO

NSO

W S

TR

AIG

HT

AW

AY

PR

EPA

RE

/ST

RA

TIF

YP

RO

PAG

AT

EC

UT

TIN

GS

/L

AY

ER

ING

SU

CK

ER

S

CO

MM

EN

TS

Avo

id s

tora

ge.

Two

win

ters

ie. 1

8mth

s.

Bes

t to

str

atif

y fo

r 6

mon

ths

and

sow

in e

arly

Apr

il.

Stra

tify

in sa

nd fo

r 16

mon

ths

perh

aps

even

a t

hird

win

ter.

Alt

erna

tive

ly s

prin

g so

w.

Stor

age

not

easy

.M

ould

s if

dam

p, d

ies

if d

ry.

Stor

e at

-2°

/-3

° C.

as a

bove

Mac

erat

e be

rrie

s and

sepa

rate

seed

from

frui

t. S

trat

ify

for

one

win

ter

if e

xtra

cted

, for

two

win

ters

if n

ot e

xtra

cted

.

2-3

win

ters

Yes,

for o

ne w

inte

r som

etim

estw

o. C

heck

1st

Feb

- M

arch

.

EL

M, W

YC

HU

lmus

gla

bra

HA

WT

HO

RN

Crat

ageu

s m

onog

yna

HA

ZE

LCo

rylu

s av

ella

na

HO

LLY

Ilex

aqui

lifol

ia

OA

K, S

ES

SIL

EQ

uerc

us p

etra

ea

OA

K,

PE

ND

UN

CU

LA

TE

Que

rcus

robu

r

RO

WA

NSo

rbus

auc

upar

ia

YE

WTa

xus

bacc

ata

WH

ITE

BE

AM

Sorb

us a

ria

Mar

ch/A

pril

May

- J

une

Febr

uary

-M

arch

May

- J

une

May

May

May

Febr

uary

June

June

Oct

ober

Dec

embe

r/Ju

ly

Oct

ober

Oct

ober

Ear

ly S

epte

mbe

r

Oct

ober

-Nov

embe

r

Sept

embe

r-O

ctob

er

Sow

imm

edia

tely

aft

erco

llect

ion,

the

sam

e da

y if

poss

ible

.

Can

be

sow

n in

aut

umn

but

vuln

erab

le t

o be

ing

eate

n by

mic

e/bi

rds.

May

be

sow

n in

aut

umn

ifso

il w

ell d

rain

ed a

nd se

eds a

repr

otec

ted

from

pre

dati

on.

Cov

er w

ith 3

-4"

extr

a so

il an

dre

mov

e in

Mar

ch.

as a

bove

Poss

ible

by

suck

ers

and

som

e cu

ttin

gsdo

str

ike.

Cut

ting

s/la

yeri

ng

Mis

t Pro

paga

tor

for

cutt

ings

.

Pic

k be

fore

nat

ural

dis

pers

ion

(whe

n gr

een

pigm

ent d

isap

pear

sfr

om w

ing.

) So

w s

ame

day.

Som

e re

com

men

d so

akin

g in

wat

er fo

r 2

days

bef

ore

autu

mn

sow

ing.

Bes

t if i

t has

bee

n st

ored

.

Pick

fully

ripe

ber

ries

. Lift

pla

nts

whe

n ro

ots a

re a

ctiv

ely

grow

ing.

May

be

prop

agat

ed b

y ro

otin

gin

hea

ted

fram

es.

Pic

k fr

om t

he g

roun

d af

ter

the

firs

t fr

ost.

Lay

ing

dow

nta

urpa

ulin

s ca

n be

hel

pful

.

as a

bove

Pic

k fu

lly r

ipe

berr

ies.

If s

eed

not

sepa

rate

d fr

om fr

uit

it m

ayre

mai

n do

rman

t fo

r an

addi

tion

al y

ear.

The

see

d (n

ot th

e fle

sh) a

nd th

efo

liage

are

poi

sono

us.

Pic

k fu

lly r

ipe

berr

ies.

1-2

2-3

2-4

2-5

3-5

2-3

2-3

INT

ER

VA

LB

ET

WE

EN

GO

OD

SE

ED

CR

OP

S(Y

EA

RS

)

SP

EC

IES

TIM

E O

FF

LO

WE

RS

TIM

E O

F SE

ED

CO

LL

EC

TIO

NSO

W S

TR

AIG

HT

AW

AY

PR

EPA

RE

/ST

RA

TIF

YP

RO

PAG

AT

EC

UT

TIN

GS

/L

AY

ER

ING

SU

CK

ER

S

CO

MM

EN

TS

Ext

ract

see

d fr

om p

ulp

offr

uit

befo

re s

owin

g.

For

one

win

ter.

Yes,

for

two

win

ters

if n

ot e

xtra

cted

.

Alt

erna

tive

ly s

tore

in a

dry

airt

ight

con

tain

erov

er w

inte

r an

d so

w e

ndof

Mar

ch /

earl

y A

pril.

Spri

ng s

ow a

fter

tre

atm

ent

Ext

ract

and

str

atif

yim

med

iate

ly.

As

abov

e.

Spri

ng s

ow a

fter

tre

atm

ent.

Oft

en s

tays

dor

man

t fo

r18

mth

s.

Spri

ng s

ow a

fter

tre

atm

ent.

SC

OT

’S P

INE

Pinu

s sy

lvest

ris

ST

AW

BE

RRY

TR

EE

Arbu

tus

uned

o

BR

AM

BL

ERu

bus

font

icosa

BL

AC

KT

HO

RN

Prun

us s

pino

sa

BR

OO

MCy

stis

scop

ariu

s

BU

CK

TH

OR

NRh

amnu

s ca

thar

ticus

AL

DE

RB

UC

KT

HO

RN

Fran

gula

aln

us

DO

G R

OS

ERo

sa c

anin

a

EL

DE

RSa

mbu

cus

nigr

a

May

-Jun

e

Sept

embe

r-D

ecem

ber

From

Jun

e on

Febr

uary

-M

arch

May

- J

une

June

May

- S

ept.

June

June

Sept

embe

r/O

ctob

er

Sept

embe

r/O

ctob

er

Sept

embe

r

Nov

embe

r

Aug

ust

onw

ards

Oct

ober

July

- N

ovem

ber

Sept

embe

r -

Dec

embe

r

Sept

embe

r -

Oct

ober

Seed

can

be

stor

ed sh

ort t

erm

,in

a fr

idge

at 2

° C in

a s

eale

dpo

lyth

ene

bag.

Yes

Can

be

sow

n st

raig

ht a

way

.Sc

arif

y at

sow

ing.

Yes

Onl

y co

llect

con

es fr

om fo

rest

sif

you

are

sur

e th

ey a

re S

cots

pine

.

Seed

lings

mus

t be

kep

t m

oist

and

shad

ed.

Susc

eptib

le to

fros

t.

Pic

k w

hen

frui

t blu

e bl

ack.

It is

desi

rabl

e to

cle

an t

he s

eeds

of

all p

ulp

& ju

ice

afte

r co

llect

ion.

Pick

pod

s whe

n bl

ack.

The

seed

sha

ve a

ver

y ha

rd s

eed

coat

-br

each

it b

y sc

arif

ying

or

try

pour

ing

boili

ng w

ater

ove

rth

em.

Pick

two

wee

ks b

efor

e fu

lly ri

pe.

Col

lect

whe

n fr

uits

tur

n re

d.

The

ber

ries

may

be

soak

ed a

ndm

acer

ated

or

ferm

ente

d to

rem

ove

the

flesh

and

rele

ase

the

tiny

see

ds.

1-2 1 1

INT

ER

VA

LB

ET

WE

EN

GO

OD

SE

ED

CR

OP

S(Y

EA

RS

)

SP

EC

IES

TIM

E O

FF

LO

WE

RS

TIM

E O

F SE

ED

CO

LL

EC

TIO

NSO

W S

TR

AIG

HT

AW

AY

PR

EPA

RE

/ST

RA

TIF

YP

RO

PAG

AT

EC

UT

TIN

GS

/L

AY

ER

ING

SU

CK

ER

S

CO

MM

EN

TS

SH

RU

B S

PE

CIE

S

Stor

e dr

y in

a d

ry a

ir-t

ight

cont

aine

r ov

er w

inte

r.

Ext

ract

and

str

atif

y.

Stra

tify

for 9

-10

mon

ths.

Bes

tex

trac

t se

ed fi

rst

but

berr

ies

can

be s

trat

ifie

d w

hole

.

Yes,

ove

r on

e w

inte

r.

Or

stra

tify

to th

e ne

xt s

prin

g.

Stra

tify

to

2nd

spri

ng.

Ext

ract

and

str

atif

y ov

er o

new

inte

r.

GO

RS

EU

lex

euro

paeu

s

GU

EL

DE

R R

OS

EVi

burn

um o

pulu

s

HA

WT

HO

RN

Crat

ageu

s m

onog

yna

HO

NE

YS

UC

KL

ELo

nice

ra p

eric

lymen

um

IVY

Hed

era

helix

JUN

IPE

RJu

nipe

rus

com

mun

is

SP

IND

LE

Euon

ymus

eur

opae

us

WIL

LO

WSa

lix. s

pp

Janu

ary

on

May

- J

une

June

Dec

embe

r

June

Febr

uary

/M

arch

From

May

on

Sept

embe

rO

ctob

er

Oct

ober

Oct

ober

July

- A

ugus

t

Win

ter

Oct

ober

/Nov

embe

r

May

- J

une

Can

be

sow

n st

raig

ht a

way

.Sc

arif

y at

sow

ing.

Yes

Yes

From

cut

tings

or

by la

yeri

ng.

From

cut

ting

s.

Bes

t gro

wn

from

cutt

ings

.

Eas

ily g

row

nfr

om c

utti

ngs.

Bes

t gro

wn

from

cutt

ings

Pic

k th

e po

ds b

efor

e th

ey b

urst

.

Col

lect

whe

n fr

uits

are

red

and

soft

.

Pic

k fu

lly r

ipe

berr

ies.

Str

atif

yov

er t

wo

full

win

ters

.

Frui

ts a

re c

olou

rful

.

1 1-2

2-4 1

INT

ER

VA

LB

ET

WE

EN

GO

OD

SE

ED

CR

OP

S(Y

EA

RS

)

TIM

E O

FF

LO

WE

RS

TIM

E O

F SE

ED

CO

LL

EC

TIO

NSO

W S

TR

AIG

HT

AW

AY

PR

EPA

RE

/ST

RA

TIF

YP

RO

PAG

AT

EC

UT

TIN

GS

/L

AY

ER

ING

SU

CK

ER

S

CO

MM

EN

TS

SP

EC

IES

a guide to growing ireland’s native trees in … · ireland’s native trees in celebration of a...

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