London’s Trees Under Threat from Heatwaves and Drought

London’s vast urban forest, with over 8 million trees, is facing severe stress from three heatwaves and prolonged drought this summer, leading to a rise in falling branches and concerns about tree survival. Harrow Council has issued a warning to avoid sitting or gathering under large trees after multiple incidents of “sudden branch drop syndrome” at locations like Stanmore Recreation Ground.

Experts from the charity Trees for Cities warn that climate change is exacerbating the problem, with more trees expected to die or shed branches as temperatures rise. Certain native species are struggling, and incidents like a tree falling on the Thames Path in Barnes earlier this year, which injured a runner, highlight the growing risks. Seb Herbst, senior urban forest coordinator at Trees for Cities, emphasized the importance of adapting tree care to a warming climate. “We need to care for native species that support local wildlife, but also select varieties better suited to future conditions, like oaks from southern France,” he said. Larger tree pits and improved soil aeration could also help trees retain moisture. Georgie Power, another coordinator at the charity, explained that sudden branch drop syndrome occurs when trees, stressed by extreme heat and drought, “self-amputate” branches to conserve water. “This summer has been roasting, putting trees under huge pressure,” she said. The charity is shifting to more resilient species, such as Italian Alder, which copes better with droughts and flooding. London’s deputy mayor for environment, Mete Coban, stressed the need for more trees to combat rising temperatures and enhance resilience. “We must plant the right species and ensure infrastructure protects them,” he said. The mayor aims to increase the city’s tree canopy by 10% by 2050 to reduce carbon, pollution, and urban heat. Efforts like watering young trees and adding mulch, as seen in Greenford, west London, are critical to maintaining the urban forest. With hotter summers forecast, experts urge proactive measures to safeguard London’s trees and the benefits they provide.

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