An interesting situation was resolved during the recovery of castle masonry in 2022 when tree rescuers and monument preservationists got into a conflict. A greengage seed took roots in the masonry in the middle of the site similarly to seeds of dog roses in the other parts.
However, this plant has been growing very well and today it is a tree. Its roots caused a small cavity grows into a big hole. This caused even more water to pour inside and degrade the whole masonry.
There was no risk from the wall statics point of view. But, from the aspect of the wall recovery, the unsolved problem would mean an increase of funds required for its later restoration. Finally, the experts have agreed that, for some time, the tree would be left as it is. The explanation was that it casts a shadow and replaces arbour or shelter free of charge. The castle staff or archaeologists like to cool down under the tree during baking heats.
Text author: Andrej Barát