'Please water our newly-planted trees for us,' urges Milton Keynes Council

MK Council is asking local people to help water newly planted trees to help them thrive.
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Each year the council plants dozens of new trees across MK to replace those that naturally die from old age.

This year alone they have planted 60 trees in the areas of Crownhill, Kents Hill, Old Park Farm and Olney.

In the first three years, newly-planted trees need tender loving care to help them get established - and this includes being well watered.

Water the newly-planted treesWater the newly-planted trees
Water the newly-planted trees

Council teams water all new trees regularly, but this year they are also asking for help from local residents – especially in hot weather.

"If you see a newly planted tree supported by a stake, give it a good drink of water once or twice a week. A newly planted tree needs around 8‐10 litres of water. But only carry water that you can manage," said a council spokesperson..

"Any water is fine to use, including rainwater, straight from the tap or even used dishwater. Make sure there’s nothing stronger than washing up liquid in the mix. Give any bottles a good rinse before using them."

The council is asking people to share their watering efforts with them and post pictures of the trees they ‘adopt’ on Facebook and Twitter.

"Be sure to tag us so we can share them. Use the hashtag #mktrees," said the spokesperson.

She added: "The council asks residents to take care when watering roadside trees, and not to put themselves at any personal risk."

Cllr Emily Darlington, Cabinet member for the public realm said: “We know local people love MK’s trees and green spaces, and this is a simple way to get involved in taking care of where we live.

Cllr Lauren Townsend, Cabinet member for climate and sustainability added,” As part of our ambition to be the greenest city we’re looking at creating new green infrastructure that provides clean air and homes for birds and creatures. More trees will help to combat climate change for future generations to come.”

There are approximately 22 million trees and shrubs across the borough of Milton Keynes.

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