Cromarty Archive

Forsyth House Sycamore Tree doomed

Forsyth House Sycamore Tree doomed

Date Added: 17 August 2010 Contributor: Colin Dunn Year: 2010 Picture No: 2751

Sadly, the very large Sycamore tree on the left is to be felled in the next few days due to extensive rot. Regarded by many as a weed, sycamore trees grown singly can be very fine, stately trees, and this one will be much missed once gone. The Lime tree to its right is also going to be reduced in size by sensible pruning, as, after the sycamore has gone, it will be vulnerable to stronger winds. I'll take another picture when the deed is done so you can compare before and after. (See picture #2785)

Nick at Forsyth House is seeking suggestions for a new tree to replace the sycamore. I'd suggest one of the following - an apple tree for blossom in the Spring and fruit in the Autumn, a Rowan for flowers in Spring, berries in summer, crimson foliage in the Autumn and general excellent support of wildlife, a Silver Birch for light leaf shade in the Spring and lovely red colouring in the Autumn, or, if something grander is needed, then a Swedish Whitebeam like the one beside the library.

Albums: Buildings, Gardens, Plants & Trees

5 Comments

Thanks for letting us know about it, Colin. In far off 50s childhood days I amused myself for hours around its great trunk. It already had these rotten, water filled holes in it that are common on sycamores. On recent visits to Cromarty I was glad to see it still there. I've never felt so sad about the death of a tree. Comment left on 22 August 2010 at 22:40 by Christopher Hart
My Mum Isobel MacKenzie lived in Laurel House just up the road. She remembers the tree. Her preference is for an apple tree. Comment left on 03 December 2010 at 23:10 by Fiona Macleod
I agree with you Christopher ... how sad ... great memories !!! an icon at the end of High Street !! Comment left on 07 December 2010 at 07:33 by John Macdonald
What was the sycamore tree replaced with at Forsyth House? Comment left on 12 January 2011 at 13:57 by Fiona Macleod
Nothing so far. It's much too cold to plant anything ;) Comment left on 12 January 2011 at 16:14 by Colin
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