The Big Tree Plant is a national tree planting campaign being delivered by civil society partners and conservation organisations with Defra and the Forestry Commission. The aim of the Big Tree Plant is to increase the number of trees being planted in England’s towns, cities and neighbourhoods whilst encouraging citizens to take responsibility for establishing, protecting and enhancing green spaces in their local area.
The Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) has welcomed the government consultation on the proposed ban on the import of sweet chestnut trees into Britain in a bid to prevent a repeat of the ash dieback outbreak.
Members of the public have been advised not to touch emerging caterpillars of the oak processionary moth for fear of irritation caused by toxin-containing hairs. The Forestry Commission has issued the following alert.
Following the outbreak of Ash tree dieback that was identified in February 2012, Defra has issued its Chalara Management Plan. An updated version of its interim Chalara Control Plan that was published in December 2012.
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