Armed Forces War Memorial

Choosing the right tree to suit its new environment is so important and we are always pleased to offer as much as advice as is useful to you.

Case Study: The Armed Forces Memorial, Cannock, West Midlands.

We were approached by Liam O’Conner to suggest a variety of evergreen tree that would retain a tightly columnar shape over time and that would be planted on an exposed man made mound in the West Midlands. 

After discussions on soil types, ph, maintenance and lead times we suggested Quercus ilex pillars that could be easily maintained to retain the specification whilst thriving in that location. The plants were sourced and selected in Italy, transported to Barcham for containerisation and acclimatisation, two years before final planting. 

Liam and his client were able to view the growth of the stock over this time and agree the cultural measures we needed to employ to deliver their requirement. Barcham offered advice on irrigation and planting and will continue to be involved with the project for further advice if needed for a period of 10 years after planting.

The first batch of trees were delivered in 2006, with the Grand opening by HRH The Queen and Prince Charles in 2007.

A year on the trees were still looking magnificant, as seen here on a site visit in May 2008.