Our green giants

With around 9,000 trees and 350 different species here at Cornwall Park, a lot of tree management goes on every day. That’s why we have two arborists, supported by contractors who are taking care of these amazing natural assets.

These trees are home to many different birds and give migratory birds a haven for rest as they move across the Auckland isthmus. The trees offer great natural beauty by changing the light from moment to moment and shaping our paths and places to rest.

Our arborists look after the trees with great care, conducting regular health check-ups, treating trees when they are sick, performing surgeries when needed and trimming branches so visitors can walk safely beneath them.

As winter approaches, the team becomes especially busy—it’s planting season, and time to add new trees to the landscape.

Each year, there are hundreds of new trees being planted in the park. The reason why they’re planted during winter is there is more rainfall which helps the trees to establish their roots so they have a better chance of surviving and growing in the warmer seasons.

Planting

The new trees are carefully planted in large planting pits which are filled with rich soil and compost to create a favourable environment for the roots to grow, since there’s a lush ecosystem of soil microbes and worms below. There are several methods and tools involved with planting different sizes of trees. Some larger trees are moved from one location to another using a tree spade. For medium to small size trees, a digger or an auger digs the planting holes efficiently.

Once the tree is planted, a layer of mulch will cover the base. We make our own mulch from recycled plant matters and wood. Mulch offers a protective blanket to help the tree get water and stay moist. It also stops the weeds from getting too close and acts as a weather shield.

Planting trees at home 

Thinking of planting new trees in your garden this winter? Here are a few helpful tips to make your tree-planting project a success.

First, choose your trees based on what you’d like them to offer—whether it’s flowers, fruit, shade, unique shapes, or even a cosy nesting spot for birds. Each tree has its own benefits, so take a moment to consider what fits best with your space and needs.

Pay close attention to soil type, placement and regional climate as well. Some trees have large, strong root systems that can potentially damage nearby walls, fences, or even your house foundation, so be sure to plant them at a safe distance.

For healthy growth, mix organic compost into the soil before planting. After a really good watering of the planting area, dig a hole that's twice as wide as the tree’s root ball and about the same depth. This gives roots plenty of room to spread out and establish themselves. After planting the tree, firmly press the soil around it with your foot to secure it.

Last but not least, applying a layer of mulch around your young trees can really help them thrive. Mulch serves several important functions in gardens and landscapes: it helps prevent erosion, retains soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. Mulch also helps soil health by promoting good microorganisms and boosting soil fertility - especially when organic mulches are used.

Learn more about what our arborists do by visiting Huia Lodge Discovery Hub.