Planting 100 million native trees over the next 10 years

Citizen-led tree campaigns put welcome pressure on local authorities which tend to be slow to act upon greening commitments

The 100 Million Trees Project at Glenstal Abbey. Picture: Bailey & Blake

In the heart of winter, things can seem a little bleak. But when we pause to look closely, there are colours, textures, and patterns to be seen in nature that are special to this time of year. 

The patterns of tree bark become more apparent in leaflessness. The butter-smooth creamy-coloured bark of young birch trees stands out especially, the pale powdery pigments reflecting light to protect the bark from sunburn. Their trunks are slender and elegant amid the tangle of other species. Distinctive diamond patterning on the bark of poplar and aspen trees is another to look out for.