The city of Kortrijk, Province of West-Vlaanderen, and Regionaal Landschap Leie en Schelde are collaborating to encourage residents to plant a climate tree in their garden. The 'Boom zoekt Tuin' (Tree Seeks Garden) information evening attracted 135 participants to OC Lange Munte yesterday. They ordered a free climate tree from an offer of 15 tree species. On December 12th, they will collect their tree and plant it in their garden.
The city of Kortrijk is once again participating in the public campaign 'Klimaatboom zoekt tuin' by Regionaal Landschap Leie en Schelde (bomenplan project). Climate trees are tree species that thrive well in the future climate conditions. The term 'climate trees' was created to draw attention to the importance of climate change on the choice of tree species.
This initiative perfectly aligns with the city's ambitions to provide at least 500 climate trees annually for our residents. "It is important that the right tree is chosen, as not every garden is suitable for every tree. I am very pleased that as many as 135 people are enthusiastic about planting a tree in their garden," said Maxim Veys, Alderman for Nature and Climate.
During the free information evening about climate trees, an expert outlined the many benefits of trees in your garden: shade and cooling, water regulation, biodiversity, colorful splendor, and fruits. Depending on the scale, soil, and other factors, it is best to choose a suitable species. During the session, 15 tree species were presented, ranging from a European ash, to the common oak and goat willow, to serviceberry. Attendees also received tips on planting and managing trees.
A tree in your garden offers numerous advantages, such as cooling during heatwaves, nesting opportunities and food for animals, capturing fine dust and CO2, and producing oxygen. For many, the spot under the tree is also their favorite place in the garden for reading or enjoying the silence. This was further emphasized by Maxim Veys, Alderman for Nature and Climate.
At the end of the session, Kortrijk residents could order a free climate tree from the list of the 15 discussed species. On Saturday, December 12th, the trees will be distributed at a central point. The trees are completely free for residents, and the campaign is funded by Regionaal Landschap Leie en Schelde, the province of West-Vlaanderen, and the city.
For those who also wish to contribute to combating climate change and increasing biodiversity but missed this year's campaign, there is no need to worry. The city's ambition is to participate in the coming years as well, so that even more people have the opportunity to plant a free tree.
