Trees for Seaford

TREES FoR SEAFoRD VoLUNTEERS – BACk oN THE VERGES!

We were delighted that the lifting of COVID restrictions in April has allowed us to get back outside to resume our ‘Tender Loving Care’ sessions for the trees we have planted. This includes pruning, checking stakes and ties, replacing mulch mats etc. It’s been so nice to get outside and see everybody in person! So far we have been working in Bodiam Close, Belgrave crescent and Seaford Golf Course. Look out for our new tree labels which are recycled from old tin cans! If you spot any problems with our trees do get in touch.

That’s not to say we have been idle during Lockdown. On the contrary there has been plenty of planning and discussion going on, albeit in a virtual world! Lots of our volunteers have been helping developing the sister “On the Verge” group. This is a very enthusiastic grassroots volunteer project to connect people and wildlife pathways throughout Seaford. Trees don’t grow in isolation; not only do they need a bit of protection and support from us, but they also need enough rain, nutrients through the soil, and a whole range of life forms, from microscopic mycorrhizae fungi, to insect pollinators, to birds and mammals to spread seeds. You can read more on our website, and that of Seaford Environmental Alliance.

Trees for Seaford is working as part of the Seaford CARES Project, led by Seaford Community Partnership, with its project vision for: ‘An engaged, knowledgeable Community, where residents and decision-makers understand the threats posed by the climate and ecological emergency and are actively collaborating to reduce their carbon footprint and build personal and ecological resilience.’

It’s so important to keep talking to our partners and work together. We recently met up with representatives from Seaford Town Council and their contractor Idverde to work together to protect our trees. Did you know that trees need their bark more than we need our skin? Humans can survive a scrape or a cut quite easily. But severe damage to a tree’s bark can set back its growth or even kill it. We are therefore so pleased to get agreement from Idverde that an area will be left unmown around our trees, to protect them from damage.

We are also delighted to support Seaford Town Council’s plans this year to leave areas of our parks and green spaces unmown. This will save the council money, and we will be watching with interest to see what flowers grow in the longer grass, and what insects can be found. If you enjoy watching our green spaces get ‘wilder’ do let the council know that you support them!

A group of us were recently delighted to meet Keith Sacre from Barcham Trees. Keith is the UK’s foremost expert on urban tree planting. He advised us on planting and tree care techniques, also on different species we could plant in the future. We feel very privileged to have him advising us.

And last but not least, did you know that the first week of June is National Hedgerow Week? Planting more hedges is also on our To-Do List, so do get in touch if you can help, or would like to know more!

Photos: Trees for Seaford volunteers; Tin can labels.

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