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Common Alder (alnus glutinosa)
£0.84
- Hardiness: Fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerant to -20°C or lower; native species, highly adaptable to British climates including coastal and exposed sites.
- Site: Full sun for best growth; tolerates partial shade; fast-growing conical tree (up to 25m tall, 8-10m spread) ideal for wet woodlands, riverbanks, windbreaks, wildlife gardens, or large spaces; special bacteria Inside root nodules fix nitrogen from the air allowing the roots to improve the soil.
- Soil: Thrives in moist to wet, poorly drained or waterlogged conditions; tolerates poor, heavy clay, chalk, loam, sand, acid to alkaline pH; avoid very dry sites.
- Planting time: Bare-root November to March (dormant season); container-grown ideally autumn or spring.
- Planting method: Dig a wide hole (twice root spread width); incorporate organic matter if soil is poor; plant at the same depth as in the nursery (soil mark on stem); stake young trees; mulch base and water thoroughly.
- Watering: Water regularly during the first 1–2 years, especially in dry periods; once established, highly tolerant of wet conditions and moderate drought.
- Maintenance: Low; no regular feeding needed (nitrogen-fixing); minimal pruning.