Elevate Your Life With Trees
“Trees are sanctuaries. Whoever knows how to speak to them, whoever knows how to listen to them, can learn the truth. They do not preach learning and precepts, they preach, undeterred by particulars, the ancient law of life.”
–Hermann Hesse
The Glory of Trees
Trees are one of the most important aspects of an ecological system. We climb them as children, hang swings from their mighty boughs, seek their solace for a little shade, and lie beneath them contemplating the clouds. We use a family “tree” as a symbol to trace our heritage, its branches representing our ancestors. Is there anything more sacred?
“Forests are of immense importance in soil stabilization and erosion control, especially in mountainous and hilly regions; they also protect and conserve water supplies and prevent floods.” Have you ever heard the expression “You can’t see the forest for the trees?” Sometimes life is about seeing the whole picture, and sometimes (or most of the time) it’s a maze we must navigate, but one thing is for certain: the importance of trees cannot be underestimated. We literally couldn’t breathe without trees; they absorb carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. The climate desperately needs our help more than ever, so we should all be tree huggers.
Landscaping/Trees to Plant
Earth Day is April 22nd but isn’t every day Earth Day, really? If you’re looking for something philanthropic to do that will benefit the planet, why not plant a tree? One can be donated to a public space or community garden, or you can even use a tree as a living tribute to a deceased loved one.
If you’re into landscaping and looking for ideal trees to plant around your home, consider something that is relatively low-maintenance and attractive. Japanese maples come in a variety of sizes with leaf variations but one that produces flaming-red foliage is an outstanding choice. Crape myrtles do well in humid climates and thrive during the summer. They also produce the most glorious pink, white, red, and purple blossoms. Redbuds are also ideal for yards because they produce amazing purple flowers in the spring.
Small Trees for Indoors
Improve the feng shui of your home or office! Potted trees indoors improve the air quality and appearance of any space. Having a living, thriving plant indoors is also good for one’s mood and may even help with common everyday anxiety. Some people like to have tons of plants and trees or just one as a main focal point for concentration.
Ideal small trees for indoors include:
- Bonsai trees are intended as small replicas of large, life-size scenes in nature. This Japanese art form is very Zen and actually comes from a Chinese practice known as “penzai.” Planted in small containers, many choose to grow their own Bonsai creations and pride themselves in pruning and tending them.
- A Calamondin Orange tree (Citrus mitis) is known for its flowering fruits and exquisite scent.
- Parlor Palms add just the right amount of the tropics to your home or, well, parlor.
- An umbrella tree is easy to deal with and is covered with bright green foliage that adds an emerald spark to any room. They can tolerate a lot of sunshine and are relatively fuss-free but make sure you have proper drainage in your flower pot.
- Lemon Cypress trees are ideal for anyone who loves a bright and bushy tree with fragrant foliage that smells like lemons. They are a yellowish-green, and the foliage is more akin to needles than leaves. They also grow in a conical shape and make for great topiaries.
From Chelsea Flowers
Chelsea Flowers offers a wide variety of trees as well as cut flowers and potted plants! Nothing makes a better or more thoughtful gift.
Pick from the following to make your home just a little more special:
- An Olive tree is one of the oldest living things on the planet and one of its branches is used as a peace offering, symbolizing tranquility.
- A Money tree is an incredibly popular choice because other than being a symbol of luck and fortune, it is low-maintenance (it doesn’t require a lot of water or care).
- A Benji Ficus or “Weeping Fig” is a common indoor plant because of its elegant look and relatively simple needs. Leaf drop will indicate if your tree needs to be re-potted or if it has inadequate water supply, too much sunlight, etc.
Chelsea Flowers also offers conifers (such as pine, fir, and spruce) and palm plants.
To learn more about the trees from Chelsea Flowers mentioned in this blog (along with sizing and pricing), check out the links below:
https://chelseaflowers.co.uk/product/olive-trees/
https://chelseaflowers.co.uk/product/money-tree-gift/
https://chelseaflowers.co.uk/product/benji-ficus/
https://chelseaflowers.co.uk/product/conifers/
https://chelseaflowers.co.uk/product/palm-plant/
For more information on trees mentioned in this blog, consult the following links:
https://www.britannica.com/plant/tree/Popular-classifications
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/gardening/g26477167/best-indoor-trees/
https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/umbrella-plants-our-best-tips-for-growing-and-care-24051