With London now entering the third heatwave of the summer, Lambeth Council is asking residents to help water the thousands of new street trees that have been planted in the borough under efforts to provide shade, cut flood risks and make neighbourhoods more pleasant.
The council has planted almost 4,500 new trees in Lambeth over the last three years, including 2,300 new trees on local streets and estates. All the young trees are being watered regularly by council contractors, but the extended periods of hot and dry weather mean we need some extra help.
Word from the Cabinet
Cllr Rezina Chowdhury, Lambeth’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Sustainable Lambeth & Clean Air, said: “We’re delighted to have smashed all expectations of our tree planting programme so that more people benefit from the shade and greenery that trees provide.
“But in long, dry periods, the trees need extra help, and we welcome support with watering by local people. The way to do this is by pouring water into the green bags around the base of the trunk.”
How to water them
When watering newly planted local street trees residents can use grey water, including water from washing up, bath water or from a paddling pool. It doesn’t need to be fresh out of the tap because trees can filter the water they need.
To help the trees pour the water into the green bags at the bottom of the trees, or directly into the ground.
Watch our short video featuring Cllr Rezina Chowdhury to learn more.
