Maroondah branches out with almost 15,000 new trees

More than 14,900 trees will take root along Maroondah’s streets, parks and expansive bushland reserves this winter as part of Council’s annual tree planting program.

Each year, Council plants and maintains thousands of trees, shrubs and grasses across the municipality.

Among the new plantings will be 1400 street trees comprising natives (gums, wattle, eucalypts, acacia, bottlebrushes) as well as a selection of exotic species (crepe myrtles, Chinese elms, flowering pear).

Approximately 3500 seedlings, understorey plantings and grasses will be planted within the city’s formal parks and reserves, while an estimated 10,000 major grasses and trees will be planted within to bushland reserves.

Maroondah’s landscape is defined by its extensive canopy, with an estimated 70,000 street trees, 47 bushland reserves and more than 750,000 trees (mostly native species) in parks and reserves.

Deputy Mayor, Councillor Mike Symon said Council’s annual planting program ensured that new generations of plants would keep the city’s streetscapes, parks and reserves viable.

“Thousands of trees and shrubs are planted annually throughout the city, either in place of plants that have reached the end of their cycle, or to build on our leafy environment,” Cr Symon said.

Where possible, Council plant indigenous species to ensure longevity of existing plant and wildlife populations, he said.

“Tree planting is conducted during the cooler months of the year to ensure trees do not suffer heat stress and can establish quickly. Trees are also specially grown and selected based on their site suitability, existing streetscape, environmental benefits, drought resistance and the presence of powerlines,” Cr Symon added.

Each year Council trims back street trees from powerlines, roads and footpaths in accordance with the requirements of Energy Safe Victoria and Council’s Road Management Plan.

“Street trees are one of Maroondah’s most important natural assets and we are committed to increasing our urban canopy with new tree plantings, as well as provide ongoing maintenance including regular assessment of their health, structural integrity and appearance, and to ensure they are clear of overhead powerlines, footpaths and roads,” Cr Symon said.

“Maroondah’s vegetation is an important asset for our community. Not only does it provide significant economic, environmental, social, ecological and aesthetic benefits, but also greatly adds to the character and identity of our neighbourhoods.

“By taking the time to create more areas of indigenous growth we’re ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same natural beauty we have in Maroondah today,” he said.