CoE encourages residents to plant trees this spring
To combat climate change, lessen soil erosion, provide shade, improve soil fertility and aid in moisture absorption, the CoE encourages residents to plant trees.
The spring and summer intense heatwaves are on the way, so planting a tree is a smart option to add more shade and a cooling effect.
This September, the city will celebrate Arbour Month by encouraging people to plant trees and protect the environment, joining the rest of SA in this endeavour.
Planting trees has many positive effects on the environment. They help combat climate change, lessen soil erosion, provide shade, improve soil fertility and aid in moisture absorption.
Every year, two trees, one common and the other rare, are typically singled out for celebration.
The Searsia lancea, a shade tree that grows well in gardens and on pavements, is this year’s common tree of the year. It draws insects like bees and produces sweet-smelling blossoms.
CoE spokesperson Zweli Dlamini said this year’s rare tree of the year is the Euphorbia sekukuniensis. In Mpumalanga and Limpopo, the plant is known lovingly as sekhukhune naboom. It thrives in hot climates, favours rocky soils, and yields blossoms that draw butterflies, bees and other insects.
“Given that the city is a centre of industry and has higher carbon emissions, it is critical to promote tree planting as a way to release oxygen and preserve the ecosystem,” Zweli said.
