Caring for the trees we plant: Caring for our environment
By Sipho Graham Ndebele
Trees are vital to life on Earth. They are perennial plants with woody stems that support branches and leaves, and they come in a variety of species adapted to different environments. Beyond their physical structure, trees are an essential part of ecosystems, interacting with water, soil, air, and other living organisms. Their importance extends far beyond aesthetics or shade as they provide a multitude of ecological, economic, and social benefits that are critical to both human and environmental health.
Trees play a significant role in purifying the air we breathe. Through photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere and release oxygen, helping to regulate climate and reduce the effects of global warming. Furthermore, trees support biodiversity by providing habitats and food for countless species, from insects and birds to mammals. In terms of water management, trees absorb rainfall, reduces the risk of floods through controlling runoff and siltation, and maintains groundwater levels by promoting the infiltration of water into the soil.
Trees also regulate local climates by providing shade and cooling the air, mitigating the “heat island” effect in urban environments. Beyond their environmental contributions, trees enhance human health through access to green spaces, particularly those with trees, they can reduce stress, improve mental health, and encourage physical activity. The economic benefits of trees are also substantial as they raise property values, support industries like lumber and paper production, and contribute to tourism.
Despite their significant values, trees are facing numerous threats today. Deforestation is one of the most significant challenges. In Malawi, about 33,000 hectares of forest land is lost due to deforestation. This number is alarming and serious steps and measures have to be taken to turn around the situation. The other factors that also contribute towards trees and forest land lose are charcoal, agriculture, urban development, and logging.
In urban Malawi, 9 out of 10 households rely on firewood and charcoal for cooking, exacerbating pressures on Malawi’s already dwindling forests (Clean Cooking Alliance, 2021). These factors contribute towards demand and pressure on trees and forest land which results in deforestation and biodiversity loss. Eventually, the destruction of trees and forests is contributing towards climate change and global warming.
As a measure to address the deforestation challenge including climate change and global warming related effects, there are forestation and reforestation campaign efforts being implemented in Malawi and the world at large with an aim of restoring trees and forests in degraded areas and places. This year on the 26th January 2024, the President Dr Lazarus Chakwera launched the 2023-2024 Annual Forestry Season at Mpasa Hill in Phalombe district under the theme: Forest Innovation in Action: Reforestation for a Sustainable Tomorrow. Moreover, in Malawi annually on the second Monday in December, this day is observed as the national tree planting day. Therefore, this year on the 9th December, this day will be observed as the national tree planting day for the country to plant trees.
Let us take care of our trees
While millions of trees are planted each year worldwide, the survival rate is often disappointingly low. Depending on factors such as location, species and care, the survival rate of newly planted trees can range between 20% and 50%. This low rate is usually due to several factors, including poor site selection, inadequate care and the planting of incompatible species in relation to the specific environments. Trees that are planted in areas with poor soil, insufficient water, or extreme weather conditions are less likely to thrive.
Furthermore, newly planted trees require significant attention in their early first two years, such as regular watering, mulching, and protection from pests and animals. Without this, the chances of survival for the trees are significantly low. Another issue is the planting of species that are not suited to the local environment a non-native species may struggle to grow or become susceptible to local pests and diseases, further reducing their survival chances.
To ensure that the trees we plant survive, we need to take a more thoughtful approach to restoration and care. The first step is selecting the right species for the environment. Native species, which are adapted to local conditions, are far more likely to thrive than non-native ones. A diverse range of species should be planted to create resilient ecosystems. Proper site preparation is also essential as this means ensuring the soil is suitable for growth and allowing enough space between trees for healthy root development. After planting, trees must be watered regularly, especially in dry periods, and mulched to retain soil moisture and reduce weed competition.
Protection from pests and human activities is another important aspect for tree caring. Barriers or tree guards can be used to prevent damage from animals or accidental human interference. It is also important to monitor newly planted trees for signs of disease or pest infestations and to take immediate action if problems arise. Community involvement is key to long-term tree survival including educating local communities about the importance of trees and involving them in care and maintenance fosters a sense of ownership while increasing the likelihood of trees being well-tended.
Local people can help with monitoring, watering, and even replanting if necessary. Long-term success also requires monitoring and evaluating tree planting efforts. Tracking the health and growth of newly planted trees allows for early detection of problems and adjustments in care. If trees are not surviving, replanting or adjusting planting methods may be necessary to ensure that we restore trees and our environment.
