Aspen Propagation Workshop

Aspen (Populus tremula) is one of the rarest of Scotland's native trees. It forms a vital habitat, food source and part of our landscape. We need more Aspen!

Aspen plays a vital role in the D&G landscape - from craggy coastal outcrops to sites inland. Many of the clones used in Scotland's clone bank were gathered from coastal locations in Dumfries & Galloway, our region's Aspen form a vital part of Scotland's Aspen recovery efforts!
We are so excited to be working with The Solway Coast & Marine Project (SCAMP) to host the brilliant Peter Livingstone from Eadha Enterprises (www.eadha.co.uk) for an Aspen Propagating workshop.

Aspen rarely sets seed. It requires a long dry summer in the previous year which rarely occurs now! However aspen also multiplies by vegetative means, sending out root suckers which then grow to form new trees. These suckers can multiply themselves in the same way so that a single tree can become a large stand of trees all of which are effectively the same organism. The trees are termed “clones” for this reason. There is a decreasing number of clones remaining in the wild and in many regions aspen is rare. Each clone is genetically unique and has unique growth characteristics which can often be quite distinct. This may be in terms of growth rate, form, colour and ability to sucker.

This fun and informative workshop will give attendees the skills to propagate their own Aspen and the session will include fascinating background to the history, ecological significance, life cycle and benefits of this enigmatic tree.

Event mainly held in a polytunnel with the opportunity for a short walk afterwards to see Aspen in the 'wild'.

Please bring your own lunch. Tea and coffee upon arrival will be provided. Full joining instruction will be sent out 24 hours before the event. Toilet available. If you have any access or other requirements that you would like to discuss beforehand, please contact [email protected].

This event is being delivered in partnership between Eadha Enterprises and Dumfries & Galloway Woodlands (SCIO 052525). The event is possible thanks to funding support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Solway Coast & Marine Project (SCAMP). Aspen is a vital part of our landscape, with a large proportion of national clones gathered from remote inland and coastal sites in our region. SCAMP is working with D & G Woodlands to improve our understanding of Coastal woodlands.

Dumfries & Galloway Woodlands is a membership organisation established to support trees, habitats and the people that depend upon them in the region. For more information, visit www.dgwoodlands.org.uk or follow us on social media.