Native Tree Gifting Scheme
As part of our collective efforts to maintain and restore London green spaces, we at Haringey Tree Co. are proud to announce that we will be gifting a native tree to every customer of our services. Whether our clients choose to plant the sapling on their, a community garden or school - we will help them select a species that works within the natural and urban environment of their choosing, so that it can be tended to and enjoyed for generations to come.
In order to do this we have partnered with specialist growers Rymer Trees Ltd , based in East-Anglia, Rymer Trees Ltd are England's first 100% peat-free nursery. The team specialise in native UK tree species, which are cell-grown on their farm.
Although there are many non-native species that have been introduced to the UK and provide great value, there are several reasons why a focus on planting and growing native tree species within London, or any area is still vitally important:
Adaptation to local conditions: Native trees have evolved over time to adapt to the specific climate, soil, and environmental conditions of their region. They are better suited to survive and thrive in their native ecosystem than non-native species, which may struggle to adapt to the local conditions.
Biodiversity: Native trees are an essential part of local ecosystems, providing food and shelter for a wide variety of wildlife. When non-native species are introduced, they can outcompete and displace native species, reducing biodiversity and disrupting the delicate balance of the local ecosystem.
Ecosystem services: Native trees provide numerous ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, water regulation, and air purification. By planting and growing native species, we can enhance these important services and help maintain a healthy environment.
Cultural significance: Native trees are often deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of a region and play an important role in traditional practices and beliefs. By preserving and restoring native tree species, we can help protect cultural diversity and honor the history and traditions of local communities.
We are extremely pleased to partner with our clients and self-fund the planting of these sustainably grown trees throughout the Borough of Haringey and the broader London neighbourhood, supporting the overall tree population of our great city and giving our clients a 'stake in the ground' when it comes to maintaining, supporting and caring for the natural environment around us.
As we know, our great city of London is known for its urban landscape, with its many iconic buildings making up the city skyline.
These buildings share the city with some much loved and valued tree species, many holding cultural significance which has been woven into the city's rich folklore and traditions for generations.
Some examples of these stories below:
Oak
The Oak Tree is a symbol of strength and longevity in British folklore, and has been revered since ancient times. The Druids believed that oak trees were sacred and that the god of thunder, Taranis, lived in their branches. Now that is mighty!
Yew
The Yew Tree is also steeped in myth and legend, and is often associated with death and the afterlife. In London, the ancient yew tree in St. Pancras Old Churchyard is said to be over 1,000 years old and is the resting place of a young girl named Bertram who is said to have been a witch.
Rowan
The Rowan Tree, also known as the mountain ash, is associated with protection and magical powers in Celtic folklore. In London, the Rowan Trees in Hampstead Heath are said to be a favourite haunt of fairies, and it was once believed that if you carried a piece of Rowan wood, you would be protected from evil spirits.
Hawthorn
The Hawthorn Tree is another important tree in British folklore, and is associated with love, fertility, and protection. In London, the Hawthorn Tree in Glastonbury Gardens is said to be the site where King Arthur pulled the sword from the stone.