The golden rule of tree species selection; 'The right tree on the right site for the right reason'.
Today there is an URGENCY to plant a wider range of tree species, with a wider range of origin.
These pages can only provide you with ideas and information. There is no substitute to local site knowledge to inform forest planning and guide future planting stock requirements. It is up to forest managers to diversify forests to make them more resilient to a future climate
Take the time to look at existing 1950's, 1960's and early 1970's plantings. Foresters were not constrained by a limited palette of species. Visit your local arboreta, forest garden and botanical gardens. The species listed in the Forest Research Tree Species Advice are those where there is suffient experience of planting in England to guide sire selection. There are however many more species that foresters should consider in the future.
When thinking of tree species diversity at stand, or at a more intimate level, it could be helpful to understand natural assemblages. Many of our actions in the next few years will be experimental, using current evidence, and thoughts about what the future will bring. It is a time to have the confidence to be innovative and creative.
When considering origin of tree seed for a species it is recommended that an origin of between 2 to 5 degrees south of that currently used is found.
In the urban environment, the challenges facing trees may be more severe than in a forest environment. However there is a wider range of species to choose from. The 'Right Trees for a Changing Climate' database provides information of over 300 species to help identify suitable species for the future.
Many of the suggested tree species and origins may not be available from nurseries today. Think ahead and advise nurseries of your future requirements at least 2 years in advance
