Taking place from November 25th to December and 3rd, National Tree Week championed by the Tree Council is an important occasion to promote the benefits of trees, encourage the greening of our surroundings by the planting of trees, and to celebrate the valuable role that trees play in the environment.
Planting the right trees can contribute significantly to the health of the ecosystem, providing food and shelter for wildlife, improving air quality, and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of domestic and urban spaces. Trees planted in the autumn experience less stress and, even though crucial for their survival – they require relatively less watering and aftercare than trees planted in spring or summer.
Don’t just plant, but ‘establish’ trees
At a recent RHS Summit on trees, Tony Kirkham MBE VMH (Former Head of Arboretum, Gardens & Horticulture Services at Kew Royal Botanic Gardens) appealed for tree planting to be more than the habitual process of selection and planting operation, by encompassing a longer term vision of “establishing” the right tree in the right location. Hence to be successful with the planting process, ensuring it’s the right tree, for the right place – followed by good aftercare until the (young) tree can fend for itself. Kirkham also a advised a shorter planting season, as he recommended to plant trees before Christmas to ensure, they had enough time to acclimatise and root before we face what could be another dry spring.
An important annual fixture, garden centres and nurseries across the country will be holding numerous events to promote National Tree Week. Julian Palphramand, Head of Plants at British Garden Centres said: “November is nature’s time to plant trees and British Garden Centres has everything you need this National Tree Week. By planting the right trees in your garden, you not only enhance your garden but also play a vital role in supporting the ecosystem. Whether you choose fruit trees, flowering trees, shade trees, or evergreen trees, each selection adds value to your garden and the environment as a whole. Let’s celebrate National Tree Week by planting trees that will benefit generations to come.”