The Local - Mt VictoriaA popular tree once again got clipped. Jane O’Loughlin reports.
A mistreated fig tree outside Clyde Quay School was trimmed once again last month, leading to further questions being asked of the Wellington City Council.
Councillor Nicola Young demanded answers from the council’s arboriculture team on behalf of the community, saying the tree had been pollarded ‘just as it was beginning to show signs of renewed vitality’.
The council upset residents earlier this year by pruning the fig tree just as its figgy bounty was almost ready to be picked.
Young was assured that this time the work had been carried out correctly, although Arboriculture Manager Oliver Pearse indicated that it was delayed as he wished to oversee it himself.
“The original work involved poor pollarding techniques, and the team made an error in judgement on the day. To address this, a proper pollard was required, and I wanted to be present to oversee the work personally.
“It is worth noting that pollarding is not a standard practice in Wellington, as it creates ongoing management requirements. Pollarded trees produce numerous epicormic shoots and need more frequent pruning. However, the Ficus species is particularly resilient and can tolerate this intensive pruning. While the current appearance may seem severe, the work has now been completed correctly.
“Going forward, we will monitor this tree closely and prune as needed. I am confident that, with proper care, it will recover and thrive.”
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