National Tree Day was celebrated by Yass Landcare members by visiting a Landcare members property on Yass River Road to view historical tree lane plantings and paddock revegetation.
The weather was brisk but the walk was enlightening with information provided by Alison Elvin, Yass Landcare President.
The property visited has been managed by two experienced Landcare families over the last 30 years, and has seen it transform from open paddocks with 3 pine trees to the diversely vegetated property that it is today. One lesson discussed was how narrow 2-3 wide tree lanes, when mature, out competes shrubs and don't provide total wind protection, as the lowever shrub layer is missing.
One golden rule for a biodiverse tree lane is to have a ratio of 30% trees - Eucalyptus and 70% mid and low level shrubs - the Eucalyptus should be in the middle of the tree lane, larger shrubs on the middle and small shrubs as the outer row. This planting model ensures that heavy branches from trees and acacias don't fall on the fence. Another interesting planting on this property was group plantings of shrubs and trees - the different plant groupings are now providing different habitats for native birds and wildlife.
Happy National Tree day to you all from Yass Landcare
