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.
46:08
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Quick takeaways
- Climate change markedly threatens trees worldwide, with a significant portion of species facing vulnerability from pests and environmental changes.
- Seed collection is vital for conserving genetic diversity, enabling the adaptability of future trees while minimizing the uprooting of existing plants.
Deep dives
The Impact of Climate Change on Trees
Climate change poses a significant threat to trees globally, with one in three species on the IUCN's threatened list. In the UK, over the last decade, planting strategies have been reevaluated to adapt to changing weather patterns. Some native species, like oaks and horse chestnuts, are particularly vulnerable to pests, diseases, and environmental pressures, leading to drastic declines. The responsibility now lies with current and future generations to preserve existing trees and plant appropriate species to ensure biodiversity.
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