Choosing a tree for a Lower North Shore property.

Choose for the mature tree

A young tree at a nursery can hide the space it will need later. Begin with mature height, canopy spread and root behaviour, then compare those dimensions with the available site.

Allow for buildings, boundaries, overhead lines, underground services, driveways and sight lines. A species that fits one Lower North Shore property may be unsuitable a few streets away.

Read the planting point

Check sun, wind, drainage and soil where the tree will actually be planted. Harbour exposure, sandstone, fill and compacted urban soil can create different conditions within the same suburb.

Consider how water reaches the site and where it drains. Also plan safe access for establishment and future maintenance.

Decide what the tree should do

Useful goals include shade, screening, habitat, seasonal interest or replacing a removed tree. Rank those goals before choosing a species.

For screening, consider whether several smaller plants would suit the boundary better than one large tree. For shade, check where the canopy will fall as the sun moves and as the tree matures.

Check local controls and ecological context

Council guidance, a development approval or a removal decision may specify replacement planting. Heritage and biodiversity provisions can also influence species and location.

Use the current authority documents for the property. Where the site adjoins bushland or supports sensitive vegetation, seek appropriate ecological advice before changing the planting or clearing plan.

Plan for establishment

The planting plan should cover soil preparation, watering, mulch, protection from damage and early formative care. Leave enough room for the tree’s mature form rather than depending on repeated heavy cutting to keep an unsuitable species small.