Curo is celebrating the end of a successful tree-planting season, which has seen 900 trees planted across its estates.
Tree-planting season runs between November and March, when trees are dormant. The success rate of trees planted during this time greatly increases.
Curo replace every tree they fell, though not always in the same place or with the same species. Senior Arboriculturalist Joe Robson explains that he follows the principle of ‘right tree, right place’ when drawing up tree-planting plans.
Trees are vital for our communities as they enhance the environment, storing carbon to combat climate change, while providing habitats for insects, animals and birds. They act as a natural air filter, trapping pollution in their leaves and bark. Plus, being around nature has proven mental health benefits for people, reducing stress and promoting wellbeing.
“Tree planting is one of the best parts of my job,” says Joe. “I work with volunteer groups, charities, community groups, contractors and colleagues to plant trees across the Curo estate.”
Curo plant a variety of tree species, both native and non-native. Joe says: “I build species diversity into planting plans. Not only does this make sites look interesting, it also helps to protect our trees from pests and diseases.
“My favourite species is the Lombardy cherry (Prunus amanogawa). It has a pinkish white blossom and grows in a tall, narrow shape, which is rare for cherry trees.”
Curo have worked with local councillors and community groups to plant orchards on two sites during this planting season. “It’s great to see volunteers grab a spade and help to improve their local areas,” says Joe. “People always leave with a smile on their faces, looking forward to enjoying some free fruit in the coming summers!”
Local charity More Trees for B&NES (MTFB) have worked closely with Curo during planting season. The charity collects seeds from trees in the B&NES area, grows the seeds in nurseries until they’re big enough to be planted and then donates them to people who plant them on land in B&NES.
Sandra Tuck, Community Tree Nursery Coordinator at MTFB, says: “The tree-planting projects have produced a great result on Curo sites this year.”
Joe adds: “We’ve loved working with MTFB. It’s great to be involved with such a proactive, forward-thinking and unique charity.”
If you’d like to suggest an area of Curo land that would benefit from tree planting, contact Curo estates@curo-group.co.uk. If you’d like to volunteer with MTFB, contact them via their website: https://moretrees.earth/