Helsinki pauses plan to remove old linden trees in Esplanadi Park due to resident feedback

Helsinki has temporarily abandoned its initial plan to remove the old linden trees in Esplanadi Park all at once. Currently, there are 68 mature trees and 26 younger ones in the rows. As recently as 2017, the city’s tree expert, Juha Raisio, indicated that the old linden trees would likely be removed in a massive park renovation within ten years. However, feedback from residents regarding the importance of urban trees has influenced a shift in direction, according to planning expert Minna Terho, who oversees trees in Helsinki’s parks. “The trend is now more toward valuing even individual trees in the city,” she states.

While the simultaneous removal of the linden trees was previously considered, Terho explains that they hold the highest value on the city’s scale due to their age, size, and historical significance. Esplanadi Park features lindens of various ages, allowing for a gentler approach to replanting — either individually or in phases. Out of the park’s 157 trees and shrubs, approximately 100 are considered old.

The oldest linden trees in Esplanadi are about 160 years old, with around 80 planted in the 19th century. Although these trees appear healthy, most have some internal decay. “The amount of healthy wood is crucial for the stability of the trees,” Terho notes.

The condition of Esplanadi’s trees is monitored by professionals adept in tree care, maintaining a level of scrutiny similar to that in Old Church Park and Munkkiniemi Park. Regular assessments are crucial, especially with plans for a new condition analysis set for next year, and Terho believes that these historic trees could endure for several more decades.