Laufen loses old linden tree – sick trees have to be felled!

Laufen loses old linden tree – sick trees have to be felled!

In Laufen, Bavaria, the 150-year-old winter lime tree on Rottmayrplatz has to be felled for safety reasons. This was announced by building yard manager Thomas Streitwieser in the city council. The linden tree is not only a historical natural monument, but also part of an important ensemble around the collegiate church. Unfortunately, the tree suffers from a lack of water and insufficient soil air, which is reflected in damage such as smaller leaves and dead wood. In addition to the monastery linden tree, a winter linden tree on Salzburger Allee is also badly damaged and also has to go. The fellings are planned for January 2025 mangfall24.de reported.

Tree care and its challenges

The city of Laufen regularly carries out tree maintenance, but the conditions for the trees are impaired by compacted soil and a lack of care. An expert had already pointed out an acute need for action in 2000. Although the tree environment has been improved by removing concrete and sealants, the future of the two lime trees remains in question. Instead of being used as firewood, the felled trees are intended to serve as habitat for small animals. The front tree on Salzburger Allee will be located right next door to the arskatzgraben in order to fulfill its valuable function in nature.

The winter linden tree, which was voted tree of the year in 2016, plays an important role in the urban flora. Their valuable wood and beauty contribute to biodiversity, and the felling is a bitter loss for the local flora and fauna, such as naturschutz.ruhr explained. The city plans to replace the felled trees with new, larger plantings. The problem with the winter linden tree in Laufen shows the challenges that many cities in Germany face as they struggle with sick or endangered trees.