An evaluation of standard oak tree growth in Ruislip woods, West London

Tree-ring studies on dominant and co-dominant oak standards from four woodlands on the western fringes of London were studied in relation to known historical and meteorological conditions. Whilst previous studies suggested a decline in oak growth in recent decades, this was not apparent from this study. Major recruitment periods for the large oaks were determined. The sites had differing responses to known drought years. Coppicing of the undergrowth was found not to greatly influence the growth of the remaining standard trees on all occasions, although one woodland showed some growth release following recent coppicing. Records of lichens for each woodland were used to assess changing pollution levels at the sites.