Street tree trials have been a fundamental part of TREENET since its inception in 1997.
Since it was discussed at TREENET's first symposium, the focus on tree species selection remains along with other factors which impact on the effective functioning of urban trees.
Growing healthy trees in urban streets where conflicts involving space, soil and water are usual is as much about planning for, building and managing urban spaces, as it is about selecting tree species.
Much has been written on tree species selection and related issues such as climate change and papers have been presented at past Symposia.
As TREENET was formed at the Waite Arboretum, it was inevitable that many of the original street tree trials focused on species planted there, which had proved themselves. Other trial species were contributed by the nursery industry.
Early trials included the Wilga (Geijera parviflora), Chinese pistachio (Pistachia chinensis) and Crows Ash (Flindersia australis).