Tree planting an ongoing project

GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - Thirty more white stinkwood trees were planted last week and the tree planting committee would like to make this an ongoing project to beautify the town.

According to Judy Caryer, committee chairperson, the donated trees were given to recipients in Kroonvale, Asherville and other areas where they were planted in gardens.

"A further 100 citrus trees were donated last year and these were also distributed in these areas."

Lynne Minnaar, Lorette Luscombe, Linda Walker and Caryer have continued to contact those who made monetary donations, and the trees have been planted on the sidewalks in Graaff-Reinet. Residents take care of the trees themselves.

"Last week the last 30 white stinkwood trees were purchased and planted. Cecil Jantjies was responsible for physically planting 14 trees in Caledon Street and four in Somerset Street and also three in Stockenstroom Street. He is employed as a gardener and has his own beautiful garden in Reguitstraat, Asherville. He was the recipient of one of the citrus trees which is growing very well.

Caryer said that at a meeting last week the committee decided to continue sourcing donations for the purchase of trees to replace dead trees and further beautify the town.

"Alan Collett has donated a large number of schotia brachypetala (huilboerboon) and some schotia afra (Karoo-boerboon) which he grew from seed. They will be available for planting next year. Anyone interested in supporting this project by donating R60 for a tree to be planted, or would like to plant and care for a tree, may contact one of the committee members," said Caryer.

One of the greatest needs is for the municipality to be further involved in cutting down dead trees so that they can be replaced.

If anyone wants more information or would like to donate, please contact Caryer and the committee on 083 560 7367 or fax 086 6178822 or email zorb.judy@outlook.com.

Cecil Jantjies planting the trees in the pavement in Graaff-Reinet.