Plant a Tree Day

This year, we – the environment captains - decided to host a “Plant a Tree Day!” which took place at lunchtime on Friday July 26th. In preparation, Phil, our Maintenance Officer, gave us a generous (and substantial) helping hand in compiling the compost, mulch and fertiliser. Josh and I set out the mulch on the garden bed in the days leading up to the event and Phil sourced the

plants we would be planting. He brought back a Malus Gorgeous (Crab Apple), Camellia Japoncia (Little Slam) and Cammellia Sasanqua (Geoffrey James).

Phil gave the students a speech about conservation and the importance of events such as this. He educated us about proper permaculture principles, soil health, carbon sequestration, plant suitability and protecting the garden from damage. Then, after a rundown of the how-to, we got our hands dirty. In groups we planted the trees in the dirt, now muddy from the trickling rain. After planting the last tree, we rushed back inside – feeling great about our Efforts – and let the rain do the rest.

This event was only the beginning, as Josh and I are continuing to plant more trees. There are now weekly sessions at lunch for students to participate. It is not only a great opportunity for students to explore environmental studies but also improve our own surroundings.

Connor KINKEAD

(Enviromment captain 2019)