On May 19, 2011, Green Thumbs Growing Kids will sponsor student tree-planting of a variety of species, on three elementary school grounds, to honour International Biodiversity Day’s 2011 Focus on Forests. Students will be planting trees from seed, to ensure biodiversity within the species. Species to be planted include 4 native trees. The project is supported by the Biodiversity Education and Awareness Network (BEAN) and seed was sourced through the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources’ Tree Seed Facility. When the trees are large enough, they will be transplanted into school yards across the GTA.
The goal of the project is to engage students in providing biodiverse native trees to the urban landscape, creating shade and food opportunities on school grounds. Trees include the Redbud, which has gorgeous spring flowers and edible seeds, and the Sugar Maple, source of maple syrup; also White Pine and White Cedar, both excellent species for school grounds that provide habitat for birds and beautiful all-season greenery. Cedar has the added benefit of being rot-resistant and thus used in garden construction – someday, the curving branches of the open-grown cedar trees can be used for garden trellises, fencing and row covers! Each seed is a unique individual, so planting from seed ensures genetic variability and resilience within the species. These four species are among the types of trees most requested by schools.
The tree seeds are stratifying now. But we need your help to get them planted!
Plant a tree for $20. For each $20 donation, your name will accompany a tree seedling (your choice of species) into the school ground nursery! All donors will be listed on the program for the day. You and the media will be invited to the planting event. DONATE NOW
For donations of $1,000 or more, you’ll get all of the above, plus your name will accompany the tree to its new, permanent home in future years.
Proceeds raised will support Green Thumbs Growing Kids’ programs and services to inner city kids. And every donation qualifies for a charitable tax receipt. Truly a gift that will keep on giving.
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