Phase 1: Harvesting seed
Each tree species tends to flower and produce seeds at slightly different times throughout the year, likely influenced by symbiotic relationships with various pollinators. While the reasons behind these timings may vary, the important takeaway is that we must stay attuned to the rhythms of the seasons and harvest seeds when they are naturally available. This step adds time to our process, but it also sets us apart from many other tree planting organizations. Unlike those that typically source seedlings from distant locations, potentially introducing unwanted genetic variation or non-native species into the ecosystem, our approach ensures greater ecological integrity and local adaptation.
Phase 2: Preparing the seed
No two trees are alike, especially when it comes to their germination requirements. Some species depend on wildfires to prepare their seeds, others thrive only after years of mulch accumulation from fallen leaves, while some can be as straightforward as planting in a pot. Whatever intricate processes nature demands, we follow.
Phase 3: Preparing the sleeves
Once our seeds are ready to be planted, we need to ensure that they are going into a medium that is as close as possible to the conditions they would experience in nature. For some of the more unique species that are endemic to only a tiny region, this medium preparation can be complex. Soil PH, mineral content, sand content, and ambient temperature all play vital roles. When we know what the little tree needs, we pack the correct medium into a reusable small soft pot called a sleeve and plant the seed.
Phase 4: Nurture
When the little tree pokes its head out of the soil and seeds sunlight for the first time, we all do a little dance. However, this is a delicate time for the young plant. It needs consistent water, correct sun exposure, and protection from bugs and strong wind.
Phase 5: Site preparation
After 2-3 months, the little seedling will have developed into a sapling. During this process the young tree will have been exposed to more sunlight and wind to strengthen its little trunk in preparation of the hardships it might face when its released into the wild. When these saplings are ready to be planted, we need to prepare the hole. We do this by digging a hole roughly 30-40cm deep and filling the base of the hole with compost to give it a source of food and give it a head start. The sapling will then be removed from the sleeve (which will be reused), planted in the hole, and watered until all of the little air pockets in the soil are filled with water. The final step is to surround the base of the tree with a mulch (usually leaves from the surrounding area). This mulch helps with water retention and has the added benefit of introducing beneficial mycelium and bacteria into the soil around the young tree.
Phase 6: Maintenance
The week following the tree's planting is a critical period. We monitor it daily to ensure that it isn't stressed or over exposed to the elements. Depending on the time of year, we will water it every evening to make sure the roots have the best chance of expanding. In the height of the dry season, we will water for as long as is necessary to allow your tree to thrive.
Phase 7: Data collection and dedication
Once we are satisfied that the tree will thrive on its own, we gather its coordinates, measure its height, document its species, and take a photograph of it.
This information is then put into our database and the link to that trees data will be sent to you in a revised format. At any point, you can request to have an update on your tree's progress (for a small fee, which will go straight to your tree's guardian).
