Choosing shade trees for your school 

Trees not only make the school grounds more attractive, but they can help contribute to a cost-effective long-term shade solution. Planting shade-giving trees is an effective way of protecting people from the harsh rays of the sun. It can be especially effective around schools and playgrounds. Sunburn in childhood increases the risk of developing melanoma later in life.

The Cancer Society have made choosing shade trees for your school easier by making brochures that show what types of trees provide the best shade for your region.

You can check out the Cancer Society brochures which show which types of tree provide the best shade trees for in your region and plan for planting in Spring by visiting: www.sunsmartschools.co.nz/be/Editor/Doc/tree_brochure_web.pdf for the North Island and www.sunsmartschools.co.nz/be/Editor/Doc/SouthIsland_ShadeTrees_Web.pdf for the South Island.

When choosing a tree, it is worth remembering that trees will probably outlive the school so it pays to consult experts before making a decision. With deciduous trees, choose ones that come into leaf early, preferably the beginning of October, when daylight-saving starts. This is the time when UV radiation is increasing to dangerous levels.

Some shade trees, for example walnuts and sweet chestnuts provide nuts as well as shade. Some willows provide thin shoots for basket making or sculpture. Ask yourself if these would be of benefit or a hindrance? Who will collect nuts etc and will they attract unwanted pests? In courtyard areas, avoid trees that drop catkins, flowers, etc as this could also be a nuisance.

It is tempting to plant big trees so they will provide shade earlier, but smaller trees cost less, are easier to establish and often catch up within a few years. If planting near play equipment or areas that children congregate, ensure to chose a tree species that has low failures or in other words branch breakages. It is best to ask an expert for advice on this.

Some species may also trigger asthma or have seeds that are poisonous so again check with experts.