West Sussex residents encouraged to use rainwater for trees

PEOPLE throughout West Sussex are being urged to care for newly-planted trees in their street during the hosepipe ban affecting many parts of the county.

The county council’s highways department is calling on the public to recycle rainwater from water butts, bath water or water from washing up bowls and use it to water young trees on highway verges.

Street trees are planted on verges in residential areas all over West Sussex to soften the landscape, provide shade in hot weather and protection in the cold.

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Between 40 and 50 different types of trees are planted each year by highways teams. They range from Japanese cherry blossom and crab apple trees through to oak, ash and beech trees and are planted according to residents’ requests.

“Regular watering is vital during the first two or three years of a tree’s life, particularly during the spring, summer and autumn months,” said a council spokesman.

“However with the introduction of a hosepipe ban throughout much of the county, and the difficulties West Sussex highways face in maintaining trees in such a wide area, help from the public is being sought.”

Cllr Pieter Montyn, county cabinet member for highways and transport,

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said: “Young trees are very vulnerable because their roots sit about a foot from the surface.

“If you could help with the establishment of the new tree, by watering regularly with recycled water, it would be greatly appreciated.

“Watering trees in this way will ensure that the tree has the best chance for survival.”

Buckets and watering cans filled with water from taps are permitted for watering, but running water through hosepipes is not.

Recycled water from dishwashers should be avoided due to the high salt content that will be damaging to plants.

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