We may pause to admire their beauty, yet few, according to the National Tree
Council, “pause to consider how they came to be there, how they are managed
and the benefits they bestow on us”, writes Zoë Strimpel
So what better way to learn about the unexplored qualities of trees than to
plant them under the guidance of experts? Opportunities for tree-planting
abound, with arboreal expeditions planned around the country this autumn on
both weekdays and weekends.
Outings are good exercise too, often involving traipsing through woodlands and
plenty of digging. To find an event in your area, visit www.treecouncil.org.uk
LONDON Tower Hamlets Cemetary Park, Bow
Trees for Cities is organising numerous events in London this autumn (visit
www.treesforcities.org); its vision is to create a “greening renaissance” in
London that will have an impact on global warming and beautify the urban
landscape. At Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, as well as planting trees,
children (and adults) can also take part in arts and crafts, and
face-painting, as well as taking guided walks.
Where Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, Southern Grove, Bow,
London E3
When December 3; 11am to 3pm
Suitable for All ages
Cost Free
Contact Inna Costantini: 020-7587 1320
LINCOLNSHIRE Chambers Farm Wood, Wragby
One of the Forestry Commission’s proudest havens for flora and fauna, the
medieval Chambers Farm Wood spreads over 900 acres. It is home to a
population of near-extinct dormice, which were reintroduced to the wood four
years ago. The mice feed on hazelnuts and the aim of this outing is to plant
hazel trees. The group will also be collecting seeds and fruits to be sown
elsewhere or used to make natural dyes. Bring wellies and a spade if you
have one.
Where Chambers Farm Wood Centre, Chambers Farm Wood, near
Wragby in Lincolnshire
When Today; 10am to 12 noon
Suitable for Families welcome, children under 8 must be with
an adult.
Cost Free
Contact 01526 399943
KENT Hilberts Wood, High Weald
This outing is a variation on the planting theme. Nick Robinson, the region’s
countryside officer, will teach the group how to manage coppiced woodland.
Coppicing means cutting trees to the ground to allow light to get the
woodland floor, so that other flora and fauna can grow. The group will learn
to cut down hazel trees and plant new ones. Tools and protective equipment
including gloves will be provided, but participants should bring warm,
waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear and a packed lunch.
Where Hilberts Wood, near Tunbridge Wells, Kent. Meet at
entrance gates to Hilberts Park, bottom of Hilberts Road
When November 29, from 10am to 3pm
Suitable for All, but children under 14 must be accompanied
by an adult.
Cost Free
Contact 01580 715918
LANCASHIRE Polyphemus Wood
Planting started last year at this 37-acre Woodland Trust wood, named after
one of the ships at the Battle of Trafalgar. More than 120 people joined the
event last year, so expect a large turnout. Be warned: Polyphemus Wood is
exposed and can be very cold. Spades are provided but, if you have one,
bring it with you.
Where Polyphemus Wood, near Darwen, Lancashire
When November 25, 10am to 2pm
Suitable for All, families encouraged, dogs on leads welcome. No disabled
access
Cost Free
Contact Jo Burris (01524 222459)
LEICESTERSHIRE Bardon Hill, Coalville
Help to restore the original Charnwood Forest, the highest point in
Leicestershire. The group will be replenishing the stock of oaks along the
Leicestershire Round Path, a 13-mile circular footpath, a Site of Special
Scientific Interest. Spades are provided; wellies are recommended.
Where Meet on Bardon Hill, near Green Hill housing estate,
Coalville, Leicestershire
When December 2; 10am to 3pm
Suitable for Age 6 and above
Cost Free
Contact Alison Albins: 0116 2553515
OXFORDSHIRE University of Oxford, Harcourt Arboretum
The arboretum dates back to the mid-19th- century, so there are some
very mature trees in residence. Families are invited along to collect their
seeds and take them home for planting. Learn arboreal science, too,
including how weather affects trees and why squirrels are such good
gardeners.
Where University of Oxford Harcourt Arboretum, Nuneham
Courtenay, near Oxford
When November 25 and 26; 12 noon to 4pm
Suitable for Mainly aimed at primary-school aged children but
everyone is welcome.
Cost Parking £2 for the day
Contact Kate Castleden: 01865 343501
SCOTLAND Wanlockhead Community Garden, Dumfries and Galloway
Help to construct a wildlife garden in Scotland’s highest village. The group
will take a selection of local tree seedlings for planting in the new
children’s wildlife garden. Depending on numbers, construction of a path and
flower beds will be undertaken. Bring clothes for bad weather.
Where Upper Nithsdale Green Gym. Meet at Upper Nithsdale
Partnership Office, Sanquhar at 12.30pm or Wanlockhead Community Garden at
1pm.
When November 30; 12.30pm to 3.30pm
Suitable for All; children under 16 must be accompanied by an
adult
Cost Free
Contact Chris Cathrine: 07739 447994
SUFFOLK Golden Wood, Lawshall
Golden Wood will host the Green Light Trust’s Annual Planting Day.
Help to re-tree a section of the woodland with oak, beech and ash seedlings.
Efforts will be rewarded with punch and mince pies at the The Foundry, the
Green Light Trust’s headquarters.
Where The Foundry, Bury Road, Golden Wood, Lawshall, IP29 4PJ
When December 2; 2pm to 4pm
Suitable for All
Cost Free
Contact Adrian Murrell: 01284 830829
Research by Nicola Clare
