Nature enthusiasts are being called upon to participate in an innovative project that aims to enhance our environment by growing native UK trees from seed. The Seeds2Trees initiative, led by Living Woods CIC, a not-for-profit community interest company, is seeking volunteers to help create new woodlands across the North of England.
The project encourages individuals, households, schools, and community groups to apply for seed batches that will be nurtured into saplings over a two-year period. These saplings will eventually be planted in community-focused tree planting schemes, contributing to the creation of diverse and productive habitats for both people and wildlife.
Lara Young, the project director, highlights the deeper connection to nature that participants develop through the process. She says:
“Nurturing those seeds over two years enables them to become more connected with nature. It gives people something personal and tangible to do, but it also helps them focus on how they might help future generations. And it’s giving them agency in the battle against climate change.”
Living Woods CIC
The scheme, which began in 2022, has already distributed over 300 growing sets to around 500 volunteers, with participants from various regions, including Nottinghamshire, Devon, Berkshire, and Cambridge. Each set includes a mix of acorns, hazel seeds, alder, and silver birch, along with trays, netting, and month-by-month support to guide the growers.
Living Woods CIC, headquartered in Hexham, Northumberland, is dedicated to creating and caring for woodlands and orchards across the North. The organization works with land managers and communities to ensure the right trees are planted in the right places, fostering sustainable and diverse ecosystems.
As the Seeds2Trees initiative moves into its third round, the organizers are eager to expand their community of tree growers. “Our community of tree growers is made up of people of all ages, backgrounds, and growing experiences,” says Young. “Together, we are growing the change we need.”
Each tree grown as part of the Seeds2Trees project has the potential to absorb a tonne of CO2, playing a crucial role in combating climate change and improving biodiversity. The project also plans to engage more with schools and develop an educational package to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.
Mike Skinner, a volunteer grower, shares his positive experience:
“I saw it as a real chance to make a positive difference to the challenge of climate change and to put something back. The project supports you with detailed instructions and everything you need to get started.”
For those interested in making a tangible impact on the environment, Seeds2Trees offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the creation of new woodlands. Volunteers can sign up for the next round starting in November through the Living Woods website..
This article is based on a press release from Living Woods
CLICK HERE TO DONATE TO OUR CROWDFUNDER
HELP US BECOME STRONGER SO THAT WE CAN CONTINUE TO DELIVER POWERFUL CITIZEN JOURNALISM!
