A couple of weeks ago I told you I had taken up a National Newspaper’s offer of a free oak tree. I promised I would update you on planting. The tree arrived in exceptional condition. It was packed in a cardboard tube similar to those used by Molton Brown (causing much excitement in my house 🙄). The roots were kept moist in a small red polythene bag tied with string. It was not clear if the root bag was degradable, recyclable or single use.
I understand that trees being purposefully grown for similar promotions are grown in modules know as root trainers. The roots of my tree were certainly trained, they were unnaturally tightly packed together and pointing downwards. Whilst strong and healthy looking there were few noticeable fibrous roots.
I chose a position to plant the tree away from our organic tree nursery to avoid breaking strict Soil Association rules. In the next couple of days I will plant one of our organic oak trees in a nearby position to monitor differences and similarities.
