In 2022, the Chapel Wood Arboretum tree inventory team, a group of volunteers from The Friends of The Savill Garden, wrote a piece for the Friends newsletter regarding a survey required for the Chapel Wood Arboretum.
This survey came about after a Champion Tree assessment in 2021, where it was confirmed that we had over a hundred champion trees in Chapel Wood and there was a desire to find out where these trees were, why they were champions, and what was remarkable about them.
In addition, John Anderson, Keeper of The Gardens, was particularly interested in the condition of the trees, given the changing climate conditions, as well as taking stock of the tree labels and their condition.
What the team discovered
Over the last 60 years, successive Keepers of the Gardens have planted trees in Chapel Wood, and it was an opportunity to list them and document how they were doing.
The list we supplied to John Anderson last September included a summary of over 850 trees, including the types of genera and species. We were able to correctly record the Windsor data and add to it where there were gaps as well as compile reports and take photography.
The standout trees were the collection of fine species oaks, beech, magnolia, and maples. We also have fine conifers and firs, some of which are unusual and not often seen, as well as a UK champion Virginia pine.
In all it took twelve days for about six of us at any one time to complete the survey, with a total of twelve volunteers.
The assessment also highlighted that though the majority of trees in the arboretum are healthy, a couple of rowan trees are not in peak health, as well as some of the more exposed cherry trees.
Learnings and positive takeaways
Over the course of the inventory, we experienced and recorded temperatures between 3 and 33 degrees, learning a lot about the British weather; stopping for tea when things became too hot or wet.
While carrying out the inventory we learned that there are very few digital solutions available and other Garden Teams we have spoken with all agree that pen, a tape measure, clipboards, and paper is the only way.
Reviewing the report, it is clear we have remarkable trees and some great champions within Chapel Wood. This is a diverse collection which reflects what we see in The Savill Garden and Valley Gardens.
The golden larch, Pseudolarix amibilis, in Chapel Wood photographed in autumn 2022 for the inventory.
Next steps
Tree inventory work is never really finished, it is an ongoing process. There is already a labelling plan in place, as well as a plan for which types of genus and species will be planted out going forward. More long-term plans cover aspects like how the area is mapped and records updated.
This was the first time anything on this scale had been done and for the Friends of The Savill Garden, it was an enjoyable and motivating activity. We thank John Anderson and the team for their support, and we know that the project was valued and will be vital to the future planning in Windsor Great Park.
Written by: The Chapel Wood Arboretum tree inventory team, Friends of The Savill Garden
