Posts Tagged ‘planting’

Plant a Tree with Your Kids

Wednesday, March 23rd, 2011

As a parent, I’m always looking for fun, inexpensive activities to do with my kids. With spring well underway, I’ve had the urge to spend our days outside, enjoying the sun as much as possible. We’ve decided to plant a few trees, freshening up the look of our yard and giving back to the environment. And for once, we can proudly say that yes – we did in fact plant something ourselves.

The great part about planting your own trees in your own yard is that you don’t need permission from anyone. The environment needs trees, so go ahead and choose the spot you’d like to get started with. Trees certainly don’t come cheap, but you can look around at your local nursery to see which types of small trees they have for sale. With enough time, you’ll find one that is the perfect size and price.

When you bring home the rootball, you’ll need to dig a hole that’s just as deep and twice the size. (If you don’t want to do too much digging, go for a smaller tree)!  Also make sure that the soil around the hole is soft and if it’s not, loosen it with a shovel. Then take out the rootball and straighten out the roots. Place it in the hole and begin filling it up with soil.

Make sure that the soil is firmly packed into the hole, with no air pockets. You can then make a small dam around the base of the tree. It should be as wide as the hole and able to hold in water. Water your tree and get it off to a great start. Don’t forget to name your tree and take some pictures as it grows – your kids will love seeing the transformation it makes!

Image c/o Crusier

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Communities begin celebrating Arbor Day 2011

Thursday, January 20th, 2011

Even though Arbor Day isn’t until April, many communities are starting their celebrations a bit early. Arbor Day is a special day set aside for planting trees and because the climate varies across the states, areas will celebrate Arbor Day at different times of the year. For example, the southern states tend to celebrate this occasion in the winter, while the midwest sticks to the spring months.

In Houston, the Apache Corporation donated 25,000 trees for planting, while Louisiana State University had a re-dedication of the Cotton Oak and planted 38 trees. Communities in Georgia plan to kick off their Arbor Day in February. Depending on where you live, you may already have plans in the works for making your own contribution to the environment.

More interestingly, Arbor Day isn’t just a celebration in the states. China, New Zealand, Brazil and the United Kingdom all celebrate the holiday, but at different times of the year in order to coincide with their summers. No matter when Arbor Day is celebrated, it’s a wonderful step forward for the planet. Take the time this year to join in on the fun and plant a tree of your own. It’s a great family activity and a rewarding experience for all involved.

It may be old, but they still air this kid-friendly commercial sponsored by the National Arbor Day Foundation.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0hH-KPAr00[/youtube]

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