Recent data from HortWeek reveals that a third of newly planted council trees have died amid this summer’s heatwave, with an overall recorded loss rate of 15.6% — but an expert in tree care argues the losses point to a deeper problem than the weather alone.
Freedom of Information data obtained by Horticulture Week shows that newly planted trees on council land have suffered significant losses during the hot, dry summer. But Martin Chaplin, Head of Horticulture at Hedges Direct, believes the heatwave is only one part of the story — and that the real culprit is how trees are cared for during their critical first years.
He says: “An overall recorded loss rate of 15.6% demonstrates how vulnerable newly planted trees can be during their establishment phase. The first two to three years after planting are critical, as root systems are still developing and trees are particularly susceptible to prolonged dry weather, competition from surrounding vegetation and inconsistent aftercare.”
The heatwave is a contributing factor — not the sole cause.
Martin explains that while this summer’s conditions have intensified pressure on young trees, blaming the weather alone misses the bigger picture.
“A lack of water can place newly planted or poorly established trees under significant stress. This summer’s hot and dry conditions are likely to have intensified that pressure; however, they are unlikely to have been the sole cause of tree losses and should instead be viewed as one contributing factor,” he says.
Aftercare is the difference between survival and loss
He adds that the key to reducing tree losses lies in consistent, structured aftercare during the establishment phase — something he says is often overlooked.
“Consistent aftercare is essential. This should include a regular and sufficient watering regime — particularly during the first year after planting — alongside effective weed control. Applying mulch can help the soil retain moisture, while irrigation systems may provide a practical solution for larger planting schemes or sites where regular manual watering is difficult.”
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