In Sovet, PlantC supported the reforestation of 1540 trees! In total, there are seven different species.
Project Supported by
Reforestation in Sovet in Detail
In Sovet, this is a reforestation project where PlantC is involved in supporting 1540 trees over nearly 0.85a. There are seven species:
- Sessile Oak – 300 individuals
- Red Oak – 200 individuals
- European Larch – 400 individuals
- Wild Service Tree – 50 individuals
- Scots Pine – 240 individuals
- Field Maple – 250 individuals
- Wild Apple Tree – 100 individuals
This combination, consisting of deciduous and coniferous species, is part of a reforestation of a plot affected by bark beetles and ash dieback.
Using a diversity of species is beneficial for avifauna (flowers, fruits, and acorns, food sources for birds, insects, and small mammals, for example). Consequently, when leaves fall, humus is generated, and root systems are complementary. This will also impact the recycling of deep elements, the biological activity of the soil, the fixation and structuring of the soil.
- Planting Period: Winter 2022-2023.
- Survival rate: 80% – the soil is challenging… Replanting has already occurred!
- 69.49 tonnes of CO2 sequestered over 30 years.
Project conducted in partnership with the Royal Forestry Society of Belgium.
Visit to the Sovet Plot in 2024
We visited the site on June 14, 2024. The plot, located in the province of Namur, was primarily covered with spruce and ash trees. Unfortunately, like most spruce trees in Wallonia, they were affected by bark beetles and ash dieback…
The bark beetle is a small insect of the order Coleoptera that slips between the bark and the sapwood. Generally, it attacks trees that are already in poor condition, experiencing water stress or a nutrient deficiency due to poor soil, but it can spread very quickly and decimate entire stands.
The economic consequences are catastrophic, as this wood is valued for its mechanical qualities (hard and flexible), and the losses are therefore immense!
The Planting
Here, we have a true arboretum! Indeed, the owner has planted several different species, both coniferous and deciduous; the mix is quite interesting!
The soil is very challenging in this location. This is because rock is very present and at shallow depths, which makes the establishment of plants complicated!
The owner made the choice to rely on seven different species, and he is right! In the context of climate change, it is important not to put all one’s eggs in one basket. Indeed, with diseases and insect attacks becoming increasingly prevalent, certain species are ideal targets.
We are firmly convinced that in the future, the species we have will shape the timber market, so it is wise to diversify one’s forest!
Stay tuned for more forest adventures!
