A council gardener in Felixstowe has quietly transformed the way two high street trees are maintained, using a civic tech platform called Steward of Things. The change has led to major cost savings and improved care for the trees, which sit in planters along the town's busy shopping area.

Until recently, the gardener had to visit the site every day during the summer months to water the trees. This was necessary regardless of rainfall or temperature, just to ensure the trees didn’t suffer in the heat. It was a time-consuming routine that often meant unnecessary trips and wasted resources.

By privately trialing Steward of Things, the gardener was able to install a LoRaWAN moisture sensor in each planter. These sensors provided live data on soil conditions, allowing the gardener to monitor the trees remotely and only water them when needed.

The impact was immediate. Fewer site visits meant reduced fuel costs and saved labour hours. Watering became more precise, helping the trees thrive without the risk of overwatering or drought stress. The neighbourhood benefited from healthier trees, and the council saw a clear reduction in maintenance costs.

This small-scale innovation shows how smart stewardship can make a real difference. With simple technology and thoughtful planning, local authorities and individuals can improve public spaces while saving time and money. Felixstowe’s example offers a practical model for other towns looking to modernise their approach to urban planting.