Trees
Trees in The Park
Our park is home to a variety of tree species, each contributing uniquely to the ecosystem and the enjoyment of park visitors. Here’s a closer look at some of the trees we have in the park:
Plane (deciduous)
Known for their distinctive peeling bark and large, broad leaves, Plane trees are hardy and tolerant of urban conditions. The large Plane tree on the green next to the playground is particularly noteworthy. This tree once stood by a reservoir that helped feed London with water in the 1800s, adding historical significance to its majestic presence.
Copper Beech (deciduous)
This variant of the common beech has stunning purple leaves, which turn to a rich copper colour in autumn. Copper Beech trees are often planted for their ornamental value and create striking visual interest.
Common Beech (deciduous)
Known for their smooth, grey bark and dense, lush foliage, Common Beech trees are significant for their aesthetic appeal and the habitat they provide for various wildlife species.
Willow (deciduous)
Willows along the river in our park have self-seeded, demonstrating their adaptability and resilience. Known for their graceful, weeping branches, Willows play a crucial role in preventing soil erosion along riverbanks and providing habitats for birds and other wildlife.
Alder (deciduous)
Alders are important for improving soil fertility as they have a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. They thrive in wet conditions and support diverse aquatic ecosystems. The ripe cones can be boiled up to make ink.
Horse Chestnut (deciduous)
These trees are famous for their beautiful, large leaves and conkers. Horse Chestnuts are valued for their shade and the aesthetic appeal of their spring flowers and autumn fruits.
Blue Cedar (evergreen)
Blue Cedars are evergreen conifers known for their bluish needles and strong, aromatic wood. They add year-round greenery to the park and provide habitats for birds and insects.
Why they matter
Trees play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of our natural environment and providing numerous benefits to wildlife and humans. They are vital for both ecological stability and human well-being, making their preservation and cultivation essential.
Oxygen Production and Carbon Sequestration
Trees are often called the lungs of the Earth. Through photosynthesis, they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and release oxygen (O2). Each person needs the oxygen from about 2 mature oaks for their yearly oxygen needs. Any extra co2 produced for food production or transportation would require more trees. Additionally, trees act as carbon sinks, storing carbon in their biomass and helping to mitigate the effects of climate change.
Habitat for Wildlife
Trees provide shelter, food, and nesting sites for countless species of animals, birds, insects, and other organisms. The diverse habitats created by different tree species support a rich biodiversity.
Temperature Regulation
Trees provide shade and release water vapor through transpiration, which cools the air. Urban areas with substantial tree cover can be several degrees cooler than those without, mitigating the urban heat island effect.
Soil Health
Trees enhance soil fertility by contributing organic matter through fallen leaves and decomposing wood. Their root systems help to prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the soil, reducing runoff, and increasing water infiltration.
Water Cycle Regulation
Trees play a key role in the water cycle. They absorb and store large amounts of water, reducing the risk of floods. Transpiration from tree leaves releases water vapor into the atmosphere, contributing to cloud formation and precipitation.
How trees are maintained in the park
Tree Planting
The Friends of Brookmill Park regularly plant new trees to replace those lost due to natural causes such as disease, old age, or storm damage. This practice helps restore the park’s canopy and enhance biodiversity. By planting a variety of tree species, the park supports different types of wildlife, making the ecosystem more resilient and vibrant.
Regular Inspections and Arboreal Work
Lewisham Council’s arboreal team conducts regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the health and safety of the park’s trees. This includes routine monitoring for diseases, pests, and structural issues, as well as pruning and trimming to remove dead or diseased branches. The team also responds to emergencies, such as storm damage, to clear fallen trees and debris, ensuring the park remains safe and aesthetically pleasing for visitors.
Coppicing
The Friends of Brookmill Park aim to establish a coppicing program, a traditional woodland management technique where trees are periodically cut down to their stumps to promote new growth. Implementing selective coppicing in stages will create a range of tree heights, increasing biodiversity and allowing more light to reach the floor, encouraging the development of diverse plant species. This process also rejuvenates the trees, promoting healthier and more vigorous growth.