Choosing plants that fit into your local environment
Knowing what trees and shrubs are successful in your local area will indicate which species are best suited to your site.
Glorious Woodlands will identify the type of soil on your site and in your local area. This will help us recommend which species will thrive in your woodland design. Starting your design with local plants will increase the chances of success in your woodland. Local plants are adapted to the climate and will have lower maintenance requirements as a result. Also, a mix of native trees that are local to your area will help battle pollution, climate change, pests and diseases.
We also recommend species which occur in local semi-natural woodlands on similar soils to your site. The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) describes 19 different types of woodland, this helps to predict the type of woodland vegetation that will naturally develop. The NVC also provides a list of ecologically appropriate trees and other desirable plants of your woodland type.
Glorious Woodlands will help you to choose species according to your land and purpose. Using a mix of native species makes your trees more resilient to pressures from pollution, climate change, pests and diseases. For example if one purpose of your woodland is to reduce flooding, alder and willow are ideal tree species.
Local species
Species in a new woodland should include species that are in local semi-natural woodlands on similar soils. The National Vegetation Classification (NVC) describes 19 different types of woodland. This is helpful to predict the type of woodland vegetation that will naturally develop. As well as providing a list of ecologically appropriate trees and other desirable plants of the woodland type.
Planting native trees is crucial for wildlife, they are also easier to grow (especially in difficult areas with little or no fertiliser), easier to maintain (they are better adapted to soil and climate) and resilient.
Choose species according to your land and purpose. Using a mix of native species makes your trees more resilient to pressures from pollution, climate change, pests and diseases. For example if one purpose of your woodland is to reduce flooding, alder and willow are ideal tree species. Glorious Woodlands works closely with the Wildlife Trust.