Trees play an irreplaceable role in our landscape. They break up the landscape into smaller units, creating a pleasing mosaic of individual structures. Trees provide habitats for various species of animals – they provide shelter, nesting sites and an important source of food. The edges of the landscape units are characterised by increased species diversity and are a migration area. Trees also have a positive impact on the local microclimate, use thermal energy through water evaporation and help regulate climatic extremes. They reduce air velocity and prevent wind erosion. They can also trap pesticides and fertilisers used in intensive agricultural production.
Fruit tree alleys have always belonged to the dirt roads. They guide people safely through the landscape, provide shade, the joy of flowers and an abundance of fruit. They contribute positively to the regeneration of mental strength. Fruit orchards have a long tradition at Amálie. The farm was established after a major wind calamity in the mid-18th century, when the forests were converted into farmland. Roads separated the individual plots and fruit tree alleys were planted along them. The tree planting along the access road to Amálie supports the main axis to the dominant courtyard building, thus integrating it into the overall landscape composition.
The importance of fruit orchards also lies in the preservation and maintenance of the range of traditionally grown varieties. At Amálie we have planted high stemmed species of apple, pear, cherry, sweet cherry, bird cranesbill, cranesbill and royal walnut.
The III. military mapping (Franz-Joseph mapping) from 1877-1880 shows the situation of the abundant accompanying vegetation in the vicinity of the Amálie yard.
