Leap, skip and plant: Visitors leap for nature at Killerton tree planting event

On Saturday 29 February, keen visitors and volunteers joined Killerton rangers to plant trees at Ellerhayes.

Over 200 trees were planted alongside the River Culm to contribute towards the variety of wildlife habitats at Killerton, helping to support animals and plants on the estate. At the same time, visitors were encouraged to make a promise for nature to plant along with their tree.

The growing trees will not only create a new nature haven but will also provide natural flood management by slowing water flow into the river, easing the burden on existing flood defences. Types of trees planted include alder and willow, which thrive on wetter soils.

Phil Stuckey, Lead Ranger at Killerton, says ‘The planting was a fantastic event, enabling visitors and the local community to improve the future for wildlife at Killerton. Lots of promises for nature were also made on the day, meaning that the care for nature extends beyond just the trees planted.’

The planting not only provided benefits for the wildlife of Killerton, but for the people too. Phil continues ‘Despite the challenging weather, the event brought with it an opportunity to spend a few hours in the great outdoors surrounded by greenery, fresh air and other visitors with the commonality of wanting to make a difference.’

To explore how you can help and make your promise for nature, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/promise-for-nature.