On 11 Apr 2005 06:25:16 -0700, wrote:

Hi!

Well, we haven't decided yet for how long the paint should stay as we
are still playing with the idea. Actually, information aout all the
types mentioned would be interesting:

1. What if the paint should stay on the trees as long as possible? And
if this is not a good idea, how long would other paint stay on before
being washed away? (Rain washing of paint from tree - nature cleaning
human traces?)

2. We actually only thought about painting the trunk, but if someboday
knows about a paint that can be applied to the leafs too, why not? In
this context the paint should probably stay on as long as the tree has
leaves... around 6 months?

3. What are these "special preparation paints" you talked about?

To be honest, I really think you should get in touch with someone who
can give you a professional opinion - I don't think you can get away
with a 'might be OK' on this issue, and you're obviously concerned
enough to have asked in the first place.

I can be pretty sure that you won't be able to do much with the leaves
- they're the 'lungs' of a tree after all.
I know that in some parts of the world they paint the trunks of
certain trees white, to prevent sun damage after a cold snap...so
there's at least a precedent.

Give the people at Kew Gardens a ring - they'll at least be able to
tell you who'd be the best person to answer your question, assuming
they don't have the answers.


Regards,



--
Stephen Howard - Woodwind repairs & period restorations
www.shwoodwind.co.uk
Emails to: showard{whoisat}shwoodwind{dot}co{dot}uk