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Tree Planting

Tree-Planting

Things you should know about tree planting.

  • Trees are nature’s remarkable carbon sequestration machines. Two trees planted will remove 1 ton of CO2 from the atmosphere over the life of those trees.
  • Trees remove harmful pollutants from the air and act as our natural air filter.
  • A single mature tree can absorb up to 22 kilograms of carbon dioxide (CO2) annually, helping to reduce greenhouse gas levels in our atmosphere. This natural process helps reduce greenhouse gas levels in our atmosphere, mitigating the effects of climate change.
  • In one year, 100 mature trees can remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of pollution from the atmosphere.
  • More than 60% of anticancer drugs originate from natural sources.
  • In urban environments, trees absorb pollutant gases like nitrogen oxides, ozone, and carbon monoxide, and sweep up particles like dust and smoke.
  • Trees play a vital role in combating the urban heat island effect, where cities experience higher temperatures due to concrete and asphalt.
  • Planting trees strategically within urban areas can reduce temperatures by as much as 7°C, making cities more liveable and energy-efficient.
  • Furthermore, urban trees improve air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen.

Why plant a tree?.

  • They are a source of foods especially fruits such as soursop, mango, guava and moringa. All of which we would be planting.
  • Tree help to conserve the environment by regulating temperatures, rainfall patterns, air quality and minimising soil erosion.
  • They are a source of income from the sale of tree products such as poles, timbers, firewood, fruits, nuts, and leaves.
  • They provide a home for other living species such as birds.
  • Trees use carbon dioxide during photosynthesis reducing global warming and climate change.
  • Trees improve human health through air purification, provide medicinal plants, reduce stress, and promote well-being.
  • Trees can serve as a wind breaker.

Where to plant trees.

Trees should be planted in areas that will promote their growth and establishment while minimising interference with other land uses. When deciding where to plant the tree, consider:

  • Available space within the environment. You can either plant in the ground or a large container.
  • Available water, plant trees close to where it can be watered frequently.
  • Fruit trees require good management for good results and should therefore be planted in an area that can be accessed easily for ease of management.

Preparing a site for planting.

  • Mark the sites where the trees will be planted.
  • If planting in a large container place the container in the location where the tree will be planted and fill the container with good soil.
  • Clear the area to remove grass, stones or anything object that can negatively impact the tree.

Where to plant trees.

Trees should be planted in areas that will promote their growth and establishment while minimising interference with other land uses. When deciding where to plant the tree, consider:

  • Available space within the environment. You can either plant in the ground or a large container.
  • Available water, plant trees close to where it can be watered frequently.
  • Fruit trees require good management for good results and should therefore be planted in an area that can be accessed easily for ease of management.

Preparing a site for planting.

  • Mark the sites where the trees will be planted.
  • If planting in a large container place the container in the location where the tree will be planted and fill the container with good soil.
  • Clear the area to remove grass, stones or anything object that can negatively impact the tree.

Materials needed for tree planting.

  • Tree seedlings
  • Shovel spades and hoes
  • Watering cans or buckets
  • Manure/compost
  • Tape measure or marked stick

How to plant seedlings.

  • Dig a hole deep enough to cover the roots but twice the width of the root ball.
  • Keep stones, nylons, twigs or any other unwanted objects out of the hole because they create air pockets that cause the roots to dry out.
  • Mix the topsoil with manure and refill the hole with some of the mixture.
  • Water the hole before placing the seedling inside.
  • Apply gentle pressure on the planting pot to loosen the seedling without breaking the soil.
  • Turn the planting pot upside down, hold it from the bottom and gently remove the seedlings without breaking the soil.
  • Place the plant into the hole, positioning it in the center.
  • Do not leave any roots exposed to the air.
  • Position the tree so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Avoid planting too deeply, as this can suffocate the roots.
  • After backfilling halfway, water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots. Complete the backfilling, and water again.
  • Apply pressure to press down the root system to remove air pockets.
  • Water the trees immediately after planting to enhance bonding of soil with the roots.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a few inches of space around the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.
  • If your tree is tall or in a windy location, secure it with stakes and ties. Be sure not to tie the tree too tightly, allowing some flexibility for natural movement.

Post-Planting care.

  • Watering: Adequate watering is crucial. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the tree’s first year. Deep, infrequent watering is generally better than frequent shallow watering.
  • Pruning: Prune any dead or damaged branches to encourage healthy growth.
  • Protection: Protect your tree from potential threats, including pests and diseases. Organic pesticides such as neem oil can be used to manage any pest or diseases.

By following these steps, you’ll give your newly planted tree the best chance to establish itself and
thrive in its new environment. Remember that the care you provide during the early years of your
tree’s life will have a lasting impact on its health and longevity.

References.

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