ZSAES Commemorates National Tree Planting Day
Since 1980, Zimbabwe commemorates tree planting day on the first Saturday of every December. In 2025, ZSAES commemorated this event by planting more than 200 trees including the 2025 tree of the year – the sausage tree (Mumvee) around the experiment station. Types of trees were selected based on the ecosystem service they provide. Trees are important for the local ecosystem through:
Provisioning Services
Trees provide food like fruits and nuts, wood fuel, medicinal resources and timber. Plant fruit trees that are well suited for the Lowveld e.g. mangoes, bananas, avocadoes, citrus, litchi’s, mulberries e.t.c to provide food for the household and local community. The sausage tree is popular for its medicinal properties.
Regulating Services
Trees regulate the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide (CO2) and releasing oxygen (O2) for people to breathe. Trees support pollinators with nectar and pollen and aid in purification of air and water; plus erosion and flood control. Gumtrees (Mupuranga) and Waterberries (Mukute) are popular choices in areas where flooding is common.
Cultural Services
Trees provide a sense of place, aesthetic value and spiritual connectedness.
Supporting Services
Supporting services provided by trees include photosynthesis, soil formation, nutrient and water cycling, and habitat and food for wildlife.
