Tree Assessment (Site Conditions)

Where can trees be planted in Singapore? (more than 1 correct answer)

• Roads (Green verge)

• Parks & Beaches

• SLA Statelands

• Rooftop Gardens

Answer explanation

In Singapore's context, everywhere where there is land, opportunity and/or potential to be planted, will be planted.

During Roadworks/ Road widening, why is there a need for TPZ (Tree Protection Zone)

• To prevent the cars from hitting the tree(s).

• To highlight that the tree is there.

• To demarcate the zone where works machineries and storage are not allowed.

• To allow the Arborist to be able to inspect the tree.

Answer explanation

Tree Protection Zone is critical to prevent injuries to the tree and part thereof (roots, trunk, branches and etc). TPZ is usually 5 times DBH (diameted at breast height).

What is the allowable girth size of the root that can be cut?

• less than 0.3m

• more than 0.3m

• more than 0.5m

• less than 1.0m

Answer explanation

any roots that is larger than 0.3m in girth size are typically within the CRZ (Critical Root Zone) which is usually between the area of 3 or 5 x DBH.

Forest edges are important. True or False?

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Aside from influencing biodiversity in the forest, forest edges also regulate forest micro climate and wind flow.

A forest adjacent to a major road was recently cleared to make way for a new multi million $$$ mega shopping mall. The trees along the streets were to be retained as they are not affected by the construction. Should you let it be?

• Yes, since they are not affected.

• No, TPZ should be erected and height control (pruning) should be done.

• Yes, after construction new trees will be planted.

• No, inspection should be done so information can be kept for future claims if there are damages.

Answer explanation

Street trees have been shielded al its life. roots have been acclimatized to a certain threshold/baseline of wind conditions. with its' shield now gone, exposure to the wind will increase and more stress will be on its' roots.

What is the phenomenon called where the tree leans naturally towards the sunlight?

• Bow

• Sweep

• Reaching

• Phototropism

Answer explanation

Phototropism is a natural penomenon. The tree/plant will counter react by putting up more wood/ roots/ watershoots, on the opposite side of the tree to counter the weight and balance the tree's centre of gravity.

Lion-tailing occurs when.........

• bad pruning practices, leaving all the end weight of the branch.

• the lion curls it's tail.

• the lion is hungry

• the branch has stunted growth.

Answer explanation

Bad pruning practices are still occurring til this day. This is a legacy issue which needs generation after generation of intervention and reminder. it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!