4,000 liters of extra water to save 75-year-old beech in Schoten: 'Two large branches already broken'

A beloved 75-year-old beech tree in Schoten is receiving emergency hydration as the municipality rushes to save it from the effects of recent heatwaves. The tree, a significant landmark planted in 1951, has already shed two large branches due to the extreme temperatures.

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Our trees are suffering from the high temperatures. Especially our 75-year-old beech by the church is suffering immensely. The crown is still in good shape, but two large branches have already broken off this summer.

"Our trees are suffering from the high temperatures," said Erik Block, alderman of Environment for CD&V plus. "Especially our 75-year-old beech by the church is suffering immensely. The crown is still in good shape, but two large branches have already broken off this summer."

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We are certainly not spraying every week and not all plants, but this tree really needed it now.

To support the ailing tree, the municipality has supplied 4,000 liters of water, using a large tank truck typically reserved for new plants. This water is sourced from a nearby canal, not drinking water, and is used sparingly. A fence has also been erected around the tree to protect its roots from excessive pressure.

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It is an important tree for our residents. It was planted in 1951 on the old cemetery of the church and has since grown into a kind of landmark. We want it to survive the summer.

"We want it to survive the summer," Block stated, emphasizing the tree's importance to the residents. The situation is being closely monitored, with further inspections planned for the fall to determine if additional nutrients are required.

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We are trying to protect the beech as well as possible. Thanks to the fence, there is not much pressure on the roots and it can continue to grow peacefully.