Tree Marking Paint

Tree Marking Paint for Forestry Surveys

If you are returning to a forest or work area, you will need to know which trees to look at. By using a visible mark, you can associate a tree with a survey or piece of work. Tree marking paint is useful for helping you determine whether a tree is to be looked at, left alone, or pruned/felled.

We have a wide range of products to help you with your tree marking. Some are more suited to certain applications than others, so read the descriptions below to help you decide.

Types of Forestry Marking Paint

Fluorescent

Our Ampere Fluorescent Forestry Marking Paint is ideal for marking trees when doing a forestry survey. Fluorescent paint is a good option if you want your markings to stand out from the rest of the trees.

This product can be sprayed horizontally and upwards, making it good for marking vertical trees. It comes in a box of 12 x 500ml cans. The product is weatherproof and can be used at lower temperatures. Please see the product page for more usage information.

As this is fluorescent paint, you will need some kind of light source to see it.

Non-Fluorescent

Our Ampere Long Lasting Forestry Marking Paint is another option if you are looking for a non-fluorescent product.

This is also hand-applied and comes in a box of 12 x 500ml cans. We stock a wide variety of colours for you to choose from. It is weatherproof and can be used at lower temperatures.

If you need your markings to last for long periods, then this is the paint for you.

Colours and Symbols

In the tree surveying industry, certain colours mean certain things. Make sure you have a standard colour system being used that everyone understands. Set clear definitions for what each colour means before using marking paint.

When doing a survey, it's best to stay true to the number of trees and instructions given to you. If you're using different colours for different pieces of work, then let everyone know what each colour means.

Also think about where people will be coming from. You want your markings to be easy to find when you come back to do the work.

If there are any old markings already on the tree, you should make note of this. This makes it easier to know what to do when you return.

Temporary Markings

If you are doing a cross-country event or sports day, you may not want to leave paint on trees permanently. There may be other ways of doing this, such as signage or flags.

If you do want to use paint, then there are some temporary products that can be used. Just make sure they are suitable for what you are using them on.

Our ProSolve Temporary Spray Paint can be used on most surfaces including grass, wood, concrete and tarmac. It comes in packs of 6 or 12 x 750ml cans.

This product will last around 4-6 weeks depending on conditions. It can be washed off with a brush and water or power washed.

You can view more of our temporary line marking paint here.

Painting Trees

Make sure you use a product that is suitable for trees. Don't assume that because a product says it can be used on wood that it can be used on a tree.

Always know what trees you need to mark and what they are being marked for. This can be helpful if you have some trees that you want to leave and some that need work done.

If you need to remove the paint later, make sure you know how to do this. Don't assume that you can just scrub or power wash it off. Make sure to follow the paint’s instructions when removing it.

Ordering Forestry Paint

Once you know what paint type and colours you need, check what we have in stock. Then decide on the amount of paint you will require.

If you are doing large survey jobs, count the number of trees you need to mark and factor in how many coats of paint each tree will receive. This will give you an estimate of how much paint you need to order. For smaller jobs like spot painting or numbering, a few cans of aerosol marking paint may be enough.

If you are not sure which product to use, speak to one of our team, and we can help you decide.

Tree Marking Paint Frequently Asked Questions

What is tree marking paint and what is it used for?

Tree marking paint can be used to identify trees when doing a survey or forestry work. You should always have a system in place for what each colour/symbol means and make sure everyone knows.

Should I use fluorescent or non-fluorescent paint?

If you want your markings to stand out, then fluorescent may be a good option. We also have a non-fluorescent option that can be used for forestry. Make sure you know how long you need your markings to last and what conditions they will be used in.,

Can I use temporary spray paint on trees?

Make sure the product is suitable for trees before using it. Just because it says it can be used on wood doesn't mean it can be used on all types of trees.

How long will my markings last?

This will depend on the product you use and how you apply it. If you need your markings to last until a certain point, then make sure you know how long the product will last.

Can I wash tree marking paint off?

Most tree marking paint can be washed off or power washed. It is important to read the paint manufacturer's instructions on how to remove the paint.