The Cammo Lime
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Cammo
Estate lies on the north-west outskirts of
Edinburgh
, some 5km from the city-centre, on the west side of the A90. The
estate’s integral structure and layout derive from a design
produced between 1711 and 1719, by Sir John Clerk of Penicuik. It
is on the inventory of Historic & Designed Landscapes and is
significant as an early 18th century improved
landscape. Subsequent remodeling has changed the original formal
layout; however, many of the trees can still be seen. One
of the least imposing, and perhaps amongst the oldest of the
estate’s trees, is a long-forgotten (until quite recently) Lime
(Tilia x europaea)
located towards the end of the avenue that runs from the entrance
at the east lodge.
The
“Cammo Lime” largely consists of the decaying stump
(surrounded by new re-growth) of a once magnificent maiden-tree
(perhaps in excess of 400years of age), that has succumbed, quite
spectacularly, to the ravages of decay associated with the obvious
infection of the fungus Kretzschmaria deusta. There
is little hope of this tree ever growing to resemble its former
glory, as the unstable new growth on the old stump threatens to
fail at any time. |
Before Work
After Work |
Typically,
management of trees in such an advanced state of decay would demand
felling at ground level and the complete destruction of habitat and
cultural heritage.
Contrary to general practice, Arboretum Internationale Limited
has carried out major crown-reduction works to reduce the
‘wind-sail’, weight and associated mechanical leverage that could
combine to cause failure of the new growth.
Conservation-pruning techniques have been employed to create
pruning-wounds that resemble natural fracture patterns in limbs, promote
the onset of natural decay in the remaining wood and allow the
development of deadwood habitat. The
Cammo Lime still exists as an icon of the local cultural heritage and
will continue to make a significant contribution to the visual amenity
and wildlife habitat.
Before Close Up |
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