More than 400 street trees have been planted on nature strips as part of Horsham Rural City Council’s annual street tree program.
Mayor Mark Radford said the long term goal was to have a street tree in front of every property where the location was suitable.
“The tree planting program is conducted between June and September as this is the optimal time for planting to give the trees the best chance of survival,” Cr Radford said.
“The trees are selected to suit our local climate. Some are chosen specifically for planting under power lines so they do not cause maintenance issues when they are fully grown.”
Cr Radford said Horsham residents were welcome to request a street tree for their urban nature strip.
This season more than 40 trees have been planted following requests from residents.
“We are now coming to the end of the planting season and we will be doing it all again next year,” Cr Radford said.
“In the first year after planting and while the tree is establishing, residents are asked to help with some initial care and watering, particularly in the summer.”
Council staff undertake extensive watering and maintenance of new trees for the first two years after they are planted.
Popular species include elms, lily pillies and a variety of eucalypts.
The program covers all of the Horsham urban area including some streets in Horsham North where there are fewer established trees.
Cr Radford said trees assisted in the creation of neighbourhood character and the identity of urban streets.
“A well treed streetscape is visually appealing and importantly reduces the impact of radiant heat. Having cooler shadier streets in summer encourages people to get out-and-about more often,” he said.
Residents can request a new nature strip tree, or to replace an existing tree, lodge an online request through council’s website or call 5382 9777.
