Tree protection

Tree protection for young trees

Tree protection is the whole range of guards, cages, ties and stakes that protects a young tree against impact, strimmer damage and mechanical damage during the period in which it still has to establish itself. A newly planted tree has thin, vulnerable bark and a root system that does not yet provide stability. A single knock from a van or a brushcutter can permanently damage a tree that represents years of growth and a complete planting investment.

Tree protection is intended for local authorities and parks departments, landscaping contractors, business parks, schools, campuses and managers of car parks and squares. We supply versions for the street, where impact is the risk, and for parks and green areas, where strimmer damage and trampling are the main threats.

Applications

• Street trees in parking strips and along carriageways
• Trees on squares, car parks and business parks
• New planting in parks and green areas under a mowing regime
• Trees on school grounds and play areas
• Temporary protection of existing trees during works

Versions

Tree guards are the most widely used form in the street: a curved guard or a set of guards around the base of the tree that stops an approaching vehicle before it reaches the trunk. Tree cages enclose the trunk completely over a greater height and are advisable where vandalism or intensive use also plays a part. Trunk base protection in the form of a low sleeve or a spiral protects against brushcutters and verge mowers. Tree stakes with adjustable ties hold the tree upright during the establishment years.

Material and finish

The common materials are hot-dip galvanised and powder-coated steel, cast iron in historic settings, stainless steel for a clean appearance, and timber for parks and natural areas. For guards in the street, galvanised steel with a coating is the most practical choice: strong, low-maintenance and repairable. Choose a colour that matches the rest of the street furniture, because tree protection rarely stands alone.

It is important that the protection stands clear of the trunk. Anything that touches the bark and grows with the tree will eventually cut into the wood. Ties on tree stakes have to be flexible and checked annually.

Placement and practice

Install the protection outside the root ball, so that you do not cut through roots when driving in the feet. Keep enough room between the protection and the trunk to allow for girth growth over the full protection period, not just for the first year. Make sure there is room left to water the tree and to maintain the tree pit.

The most underrated point is the end of the service life. Tree stakes and ties should be removed after the establishment period. Protection left in place while the tree thickens causes precisely the damage it was meant to prevent. So set a removal moment in your management planning at the time of installation.

When tree protection is not necessary

In a park with no vehicles and no mowing right up to the trunk, extensive protection is superfluous and disturbs the picture. For large, established trees with thick bark, protection is usually no longer worthwhile, except during works. The classic mistake is choosing a cage that is too narrow and then never adjusting it.

What determines the price?

The price depends on the type of protection, the material and its thickness, the height and diameter, the finish and colour, the method of anchoring, and the number of units. Decorative elements, a bespoke design for a specific tree pit, transport and any installation also play a part. Give us the trunk diameter, the setting and the number of trees, and we will draw up a tailored proposal.

Protecting your planting

Tell us where the trees stand and which risk applies: impact, mowing or trampling. We will propose suitable protection that leaves the tree room to grow. Get in touch for advice and a quotation.