Spider wrote in :


Forgive me following my own post, Jake, but having looked at your pics
again, I note that some of your trees are growing with grass close to
the trunk. Trees, especially new trees, need a 3ft/1m circle of clear
soil to prevent competition from grass and weeds. The grass mulch round
some of your trees is good, but it shouldn't be making contact with the
trunk, as this can cause rotting.

thanks again. You really sem to know your stuff (despite saying you're not
an expert)!

I'm a bit concerned about Tree No2 - the one that god snapped off at half
its height shortly after planting. That's the one that I need to grow tall
the quickest and produce shade.

After reading all you've said, I wish I hadn't done any Summer pruning
becase you imply this will inhibit growth. I didn't know that prior to
reading your advice. However what's done is done, and hopefully all will
look satisfactory as it grows in the coming years.

When I bough these saplings (from Asda) there was no indication what the
rootstock was or what the final height would be. I suppose only time will
tell.

I was surprised how many times Tree No.2 tolerated being moved! I moved it
twice before being happy with the exact position, and it carried on growing
without batting an eyelid!

JD