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Screening
starry-night
Posts: 3
Hi. Unfortunately, it appears the tree inherited when we moved in and used to screen the next door neighbours 1st floor windows has had it's day. (See close up of problem which is all over the tree). The plan is to replace it, but with what? It needs to be 12-15' high, with spread of 15', quick growing, bird friendly, and preferably not evergreen. It also gives much needed shade. Help!!
Last edited: 08 September 2016 12:52:02
0
Posts
The tree just looks like it has lichen on it, from what I can see , which isn't an issue. Has someone told you it's dying?
Last edited: 08 September 2016 13:07:26
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Hi Fairygirl. Just one local gardener. It's EXTREMELY brittle too with twigs falling off. Perhaps another opinion is needed? I'd be more than happy if it's OK, though it does need lopping. I'm really 'not much of a gardener' myself, and any help will be gratefully received.
Trees do lose some branches regularly as well. Perhaps you could get a couple of people to give you their opinions as to the lifespan of the tree. It may justneed some careful pruning.
However, if it has to be removed, I'm afraid it's the often asked question here: something quick growing that then stops. Unfortunately, it's not that simple. Anything which grows rapidly, won't just magically stop, and will therefore need pruning and trimming regularly. Things like the dreaded Lleylandii, which you've probably heard of, will keep growing indefinitely, at around 3 or 4 feet a year, and can cause all sorts of issues. Eucalyptus is another tree which grows rapidly - but keeps growing....
A single tree will take several years to make a big enough screen , unless you buy a mature specimen which will be very expensive.
You may be better considering a hedge. Even good old common privet will grow fairly rapidly and needs trimmed a couple of times a year to keep it tidy - more if you get a good bit of rain. Technically semi evergreen, but provides good cover. Laurel is another contender for rapid hedging, but takes up more room. Beech or Hornbeam aren't evergreen as such, but retain their foliage over winter and provide a decent screen.
Alternatively a couple of larger shrubs - some of the Viburnums are evergreen and will get to about 3 metres in each direction.
Hope that's a little help
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...