Cape Town tree removals target dead oaks in Ward 59

Cape Town tree removals have begun in Ward 59 as the City cuts dead English oak trees to reduce safety risks ahead of winter.

The programme follows a rise in tree deaths linked to shot-hole borer infestation and prolonged climate stress.

Ward 59 councillor Mikhail Manuel said removals were prioritised after conditions worsened over the past year.

Infestation and climate impact

Teams have focused on Main Road in Rondebosch, where several trees have already been removed.

Manuel said there is currently no structured treatment programme for borer infestations.

“At the moment there is no structured treatment for borer infestations. The only approach is to remove the affected tree, which effectively kills it,” he said.

He said most affected trees are ageing English oaks, estimated to be between 60 and 70 years old.

“A combination of the 2018 drought and very hot summers weakened these trees. They were infected but still alive last summer. This summer, many of them died,” he said.

Why English oaks are vulnerable

English oak trees, scientifically known as Quercus robur, are widely planted in Cape Town’s older suburbs.

Originally native to Europe, they thrive in cooler climates and can live for several hundred years under ideal conditions.

Urban forestry sources say shot-hole borer beetles attack weakened trees. Damage often goes unnoticed until it becomes severe.

Heavily infested trees can become structurally unstable. This increases the risk of falling branches or collapse.

Spike in tree deaths

Manuel said the rate of tree deaths accelerated in recent months.

“Trees were dying every three to four days in a row. That is when it became apparent that we could not continue as normal going into winter,” he said.

Residents raised concerns late last year. This prompted engagement with City officials and the current removal programme.

Calls for replanting

Residents have also questioned preventative care and replacement plans.

Gaby Aeberli raised concerns about the lack of annual treatment. Barry van Selm called for new trees to be planted.

Manuel said a mass tree planting campaign is planned.

In the meantime, residents can collect free trees from the City nursery. They must commit to watering them.

The City has not yet confirmed how many trees are affected or when replanting will take place.

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