BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast Trees and their Future with Tony Kirkham
Nov 28, 2024
Tony Kirkham, a renowned British botanist and former Head of Arboretum at Kew Gardens, dives into the pivotal role trees play amid climate change. He shares insights on how trees are adapting globally and discusses the emotional connections we have with them. The conversation highlights the importance of tree diversity in combatting pests and diseases, while emphasizing careful planting strategies to ensure their survival. Listeners can also learn about seed conservation and the personal experiences that inspire tree preservation efforts.
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First Expedition Adventure
- Tony Kirkham shared his first expeditions collecting seeds to grow trees like monkey puzzles at Kew.
- Despite hardships, he loved witnessing trees in their natural habitats and collecting seed for conservation.
Seed Collection Best Practices
- Collect seeds sustainably for conservation instead of uprooting plants.
- Seed collection represents gene diversity better and is easier to transport and store.
Global Tree Conservation Crisis
- One in three tree species is threatened globally, with over 200 extinct in the wild.
- Trees are vital for daily human needs, demanding urgent conservation efforts.