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Wild Cherry or Scots Pine? Bo at 16 planted

Which one is most like me, asked Bo, finding the decision which tree to plant for his 16th birthday a tough one to make. So we began a Bo dance, dragging up knowledge of trees and finding simile to the tall handsome person called Bo turning 16 years on this earth. He had a choice of two:

Pinus sylvestris the only pine native to northern Europe. The tree spread across Britain and Ireland after the last Glacial Maximum (26,000 and 20,000 years ago), Pollen records show that pine was present locally in southern England by 9,000 years ago.

Prunus avium Wild cherry, one of the prettiest native trees, is relished by gardeners and wildlife. Mature trees can grow to 30m and live for up to 60 years.

Blossom or height? He went for height but hedged, suggesting he plant a wild cherry next year!

Here we are planting the Scots Pine, at the apex of the Arboretum triangle, imagining us saying in years to come, turn right the Scots Pine. Bobji carried the tree protector, Sarah took the photograph. Bo managed to get no mud on his boots.

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