This year's National Tree Week has added significance given the devastation storms caused to forests

Events such as plantings, woodland walks, and guided tours will form part of the week, which runs from next Sunday until March 16 

Woodlands are home to a wide variety of plants, animals, and microorganisms. Planting more trees and forests will create and maintain these native species-rich ecosystems. Picture: Denis Minihane

The beauty and crucial importance of Ireland’s trees will be celebrated countywide during National Tree Week, which begins on Sunday, March 9, and continues until March 16.

But this year, the events organised under the umbrella of the Tree Council of Ireland in partnership with Coillte will take place against a background of the devastation caused to forests and other plantations by Storms Darragh and Éowyn.