A tree with good health emits a clear, bright sound when disturbed.
In the heart of Schneverdingen, a significant event has taken place. On German Unity Day, an oak tree in the Walter-Peters Park, dedicated to the state of Bavaria, was uprooted by a gust of wind. The fallen tree, unfortunately, trapped two people, but thankfully, no one was seriously injured.
The head gardener of Schneverdingen, Matthias Reimers, was quick to inspect the fallen oak tree. Upon initial examination, he confirmed that the tree was infested with a giant polypore. This fungus, known for causing white rot, weakens the stability and strength of the wood, eventually leading to the tree's demise.
Matthias Reimers, a dedicated horticulturist, is not new to the city's verdant landscape. Herr Jürgen Büll, another gardener of Schneverdingen, recently gave a speech, acknowledging Matthias's role in maintaining the city's tree population.
The damp and warm weather this year has accelerated the growth and spread of fungi, making it a 'fungal year', according to Matthias. The giant polypore, in its early stages, is hard to detect, making regular inspections crucial.
In Schneverdingen, two comprehensive tree inspections are carried out each year. Seven dedicated gardeners from the municipal yard diligently keep an eye on these trees during their daily tours through the park.
The red oak's vitality was rated as a two. Dead wood is typical for an oak tree, but the extent of decay in this particular giant oak tree was concerning. Despite this setback, the city of Schneverdingen boasts a tree population of approximately 20,000, a testament to the city's commitment to green spaces.
The Tree Portal also emphasises the difficulty in detecting the presence of the giant polypore in its early stages. However, with regular inspections and the vigilance of the city's gardeners, Schneverdingen's trees continue to thrive. The fallen red oak serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining the city's green spaces and the challenges that come with it.
