The London Plane in Hayner Park had been pruned in its early and juvenile years. There are signs it has been occasionally pruned during its vigorous maturity. But for much of its long life1, it has been left unpruned. The benign neglect this tree enjoyed for much of its life is the reason it grew to its global champion size.
Then in August, 2022, that changed.
In late May, 2023, Tree People of Walla Walla found a press release2 from the Walla Walla Public School District announcing a pruning of the tree. The pruning had taken place months before, on August 8, 2022. This pruning was discovered by accident a few days after the tree was measured by Robert Van Pelt on May 26, 2023.
Van Pelt’s new measurement of the tree revealed disturbing facts: all three critical measurements, height, girth, and crown spread, were smaller than expected.
There may be several explanations for this apparent discrepancy; new measuring technology and stricter measuring standards may account for some of the change. But there can be no doubt that the August 2022 pruning left the tree tragically altered.
Reducing the crown of this tree reduced its championship score. Tree People has in the past promoted this tree worldwide as a global champion. Regretfully, we can no longer do so.
notes
- Estimated date for planting of the tree ranges from the late 1880s to 1907.
- Local tree experts collaborate to help preserve community treasure
Tree People of Walla Walla 