Withy Grove Stores, Manchester.

I remember visiting these stores some time in the late 80s to buy a small safe for the office of the bank where I worked. They seemed old fashioned and dusty even back then.

Besides the pleasingly verdant and extensive moss growth, there is a small tree clinging onto the side of this wonderful example of architecture.

The history of the area (in an urban context) dates back to around the mid 16th century – read more here.

Withy_Grove

Close up of the tree:

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Abandoned Mill, Oldham

I spotted this from a tram on my way in to Manchester. My eldest daughter had to do a photography project a few weeks later, so I suggested this place.

It’s an awesome and very large abandoned mill near to the centre of Oldham.

There were pigeons flying about and loud water dripping type noises, so it was pretty creepy. There are lots more shots I will upload later, but I was keen to share this find with you trees fans!

Hartford_Mill1

Shudehill Tram Stop, Manchester

Shudehill is a great area for these trees/bushes. I did look up what sort they were but I’ve forgotten now.

This is a clothing warehouse I think. There are signs further down saying “This Window Has a Registered Right To Light Which Will Be Rigorously Enforced”. One of the windows with a sign has been bricked up, which I think is ironic.

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Smithfield Market, London

Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, I bring a whole new level of credibility to the proceedings: A tree in London.

There were a few on top of this building – which is one end of Smithfield Market in London.

London2 London1_detail

You will notice that most of the pictures are more likely to be of shrubs than trees. Looking at the definition of a tree:

“woody plant having one erect perennial stem (trunk) at least three inches in diameter at a point 4-1/2 feet above the ground, a definitely formed crown of foliage, and a mature height of at least 13 feet.”

It seems unlikely we will see many genuine examples, but you never know.

As such, I think a sturdy shrub or sapling is just as acceptable – but something like a Himalayan Balsam doesn’t count. Having said that, if it’s on a nice building then it doesn’t really matter.