BENEFITS OF PLANTING TREES

In our last article, we sifted through some of the benefits, let us now look in detail at how plants are helping us and saving the environment: 

1. Oxygen Production

Through the process of photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the atmosphere. This oxygen is essential for human and animal respiration, providing the air we breathe to sustain life.

2. Carbon Sequestration

Trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in their biomass. By removing carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, from the air, trees help mitigate climate change by reducing the overall concentration of greenhouse gases responsible for trapping heat in the Earth's atmosphere.

3. Biodiversity Support 

Trees provide habitats for a wide variety of plant and animal species. Forests, in particular, are highly diverse ecosystems that support numerous species, from insects to mammals. The presence of trees helps preserve biodiversity by offering food, shelter, and breeding grounds for various organisms.

4. Soil Conservation 

Tree roots help anchor the soil, preventing erosion caused by wind and water. By holding the soil in place, trees help maintain soil fertility and structure, reducing the loss of topsoil and preserving valuable agricultural land.

5. Temperature Regulation

Trees provide shade, which helps reduce temperatures in their immediate surroundings. This natural cooling effect is particularly beneficial in urban areas, where the prevalence of concrete and asphalt can lead to higher temperatures, known as the urban heat island effect.

6. Water Conservation 

Tree roots absorb rainwater, reducing runoff and helping to recharge groundwater supplies. By intercepting rainfall and allowing it to infiltrate into the soil, trees contribute to the overall health of watersheds and help prevent flooding and erosion.

7. Fruit and Nut Production

Many tree species bear edible fruits, nuts, or seeds, providing a sustainable source of food for humans and wildlife. These nutritious offerings contribute to local food security and support biodiversity by attracting a variety of animals that feed on fruits and nuts.

8. Wood and Timber Resources

Trees are valuable renewable resources used for wood products, such as lumber, paper, and furniture. Sustainable forestry practices ensure that trees are harvested responsibly, allowing for the continued availability of wood and timber while preserving forest ecosystems.

9. Carbon Storage 

Trees store carbon within their biomass, including their trunks, branches, and leaves. This stored carbon represents a significant reservoir that helps offset carbon emissions from human activities, acting as a natural means of carbon sequestration.

10. Community Well-being 

Green spaces, including parks, forests, and urban tree-lined streets, contribute to the overall well-being of communities. Access to nature has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced stress, improved mental health, and increased physical activity. Additionally, the presence of trees enhances the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods and creates more pleasant and livable environments for residents.

Take a look at what some of our social media family members had to say on the benefits of planting trees: 

Facebook:

John Tezi - 

" To bring good shed , To protect wind blowing and in order to bring rain. " 

Instagram:

@rewireyourmindsetstrategy -

"Fresh oxygen, better overall human health." 

@aisha_bagha -

"Good for the ecosystem"

@karuvadgraphy -

"You achieve the feel of giving birth"

ORANGE TREES

 Orange Tress are also part of our School Gardens. Orange tree is a citrus evergreen tree with a productive lifespan of 50-60 years. Some well-cared orange trees can live up to 100 years or more. It is a flowering tree and its height in maturity can range between 16 and 50 ft. 

Orange trees are evergreens and feature glossy, dark-green leaves year-round. They flower in spring, and the little green fruits mature into the familiar oranges in winter. Oranges actually need the cold night air to turn from green to orange. Fruits sheltered inside the tree's canopy may be completely ripe but are still green-skinned or a splotchy combination of green and orange.

Let us take a look at the benefits of Orange Trees: 

1. High in Vitamin C

Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is one of the most well-known and well-researched antioxidants. Good intake of vitamin C is associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer as it helps to get of free radicals that cause damage to our DNA.

2. Healthy Immune System 

Regularly consuming fruits, which are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds, can help promote healthy immune function.

Oranges and other citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C, which is also vital for the proper function of a healthy immune system, is good for preventing colds and preventing recurrent ear infections.

3. Prevents Skin Damage

Anti-oxidants in oranges help protect skin from free radical damage known to cause signs of aging. Helps your body make collagen, a protein that heals wounds and gives you smoother skin. 

4. Reduces Blood Pressure

Oranges, being rich in Vitamins B6, help support the production of hemoglobin and also help keep blood pressure under check due to the presence of magnesium. 

5. Lowers Cholesterol

The 3 grams of fiber in a medium orange help keep your bowels healthy, your cholesterol and risk of heart disease low, and ulcers at bay. 

6 Helps in Absorption of Iron

Citrus fruits are very much essential for the normal functioning of our body as they help in the absorption of iron. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks an adequate amount of mineral iron that is essential for it to function. Though oranges are not a good source of iron, these vitamin C loaded fruits are essential in absorption of iron.

7. Controls Blood Sugar Levels

Fiber in oranges help by keeping blood sugar levels under control thereby making oranges a healthy snack for people with diabetes. Moreover, oranges have simple sugars. The natural fruit sugar in oranges, fructose, can help keep blood sugar levels from rising too high after eating.

8. Good Eye Health

Oranges are a rich source of carotenoid. The Vitamin A present in them play an important role in keeping the mucus membranes in the eyes healthy. Vitamin A is also responsible to prevent age-related muscular degeneration, which in extreme cases can lead to blindness. It also helps eyes to absorb the light.

9. Improves Digestion

Oranges have both soluble and insoluble fiber. This helps in keeping your intestines and stomach function smooth, preventing irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, the fiber helps treat constipation to a greater extent.

10. Folate for Moms and Babies

Oranges are a great way to get a big dose of folate naturally. Your body uses it to divide cells and make DNA. Because it helps prevent birth defects, it's an especially important B vitamin for pregnant women.

11. Stomach Health

Flowers of Orange trees can be used to fight stomach spasms. 

12. Muscle relaxant 

The use of essential oil of orange for relaxing massage helps relieve tension and reduce stress. 

Here are some of the benefits as shared by our Instagram family: 

@mentor_quresha - 

" Lowers risk of cancer. Acts as an anti-inflammatory." 

@its_winnie_cheche-

"Oranges" 

@zainab_akadir -

"Gives oranges which rich in Vitamin C" 

@aisha_bagha - 

"Sweet delicious Oranges"

@haffy_organics -

" Fruits used in skincare to improve the skin, boosts immune system & helps with constipation too " 

LEMON TREES

 Lemon trees are also part of our school garden plants in Kenya. Lemon, is a small evergreen tree grown for its edible fruit which, among other things, are used in a variety of foods and drinks. The tree has a spreading, upright growth habit, few large branches and stiff thorns. The tree possesses large, light green leaves and produces purple-white flowers in clusters. 

Lemon trees need well-drained soil because they are extremely susceptible to root rot. They prefer climates where the temperature does not fall below freezing, but they can live in colder climates though they may not fruit or flower.

Here are some of the benefits of planting lemon trees: 

1. Health Benefits

Lemon trees are a rich source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium. These minerals are vital for building & maintaining strong bones, maintaining a healthy heart as well as protecting you against cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Lemons also contain proteins, carbohydrates, fats and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system which further positively impacts your health & wellness.

Lemons may also help in weight control, and digestive health. 

Citric acid may help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine volume and increasing urine pH, creating a less favorable environment for kidney stone formation. 

Flavonoid-rich lemons have anti-inflammatory properties and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Fresh or dried lemon peels also boast tonic properties. They are used in to prepare certain appetite-enhancing drinks.

Lemons also help with dental care, they whiten teeth, fight plaque formation, soothe canker sores and inflamed gums.

Lemons are excellent back-up antiseptic agents when used externally. Lemon juice stops bleeding and speeds wound-healing.

Rinse your hair with lemon juice added to water for your last rinse after having used shampoo, and your hair will grow shiny and soft.

Finally, lemon peels are great against acne, and astringent lemon juice works wonders against black spots and dilated pores for persons with oily skin. Use pure or thin with mineral water.

2. Support other plants 

Lemons love to grow with Basil, Thyme, Cilanto and Rosmary. These herbs, are great for cooking and apart from their added health benefits, they could save you one less trip to the local grocer. 

3. Add beauty

Lemon trees certainly enhance the overall look of your garden; with those lustrous dark green leaves and bursts of yellow, it is indeed a scenic sight. These trees add a different dynamic to your garden and, to some, can even evoke a sense of serenity or positive emotions.

Also studies show that the lemon scent can help reduce stress and boost energy and alertness.

4. Lemon leaves benefits 

The leaves of the lemon tree are often overlooked and can be used for many different purposes. Lemon leaves are used as an excellent addition to culinary dishes, decorations, and seasoning. So, for instance, if you are looking for a new way to grill your meats, line the grill bed with lemon leaves, or wrap the leaves around meat or fish before grilling. In addition, lemon leaves have a fantastic aroma that is often used to impart bold flavors to dishes.

These leaves can also be used as an excellent mold for chocolate leaves. Simply wash the leaves before use, paint the melted chocolate over the leaves, leave to set, and then peel off. 

Alternatively, if you are in a mood for a tasty hot drink, try lemon leaf tea. An infused lemon leaf tea is sure to leave you feeling warm and fresh. Or add a lemon leaf to your standard cup of tea for a blast of flavor. 

Take a look at what our Instagram viewers have to say on the benefits of Lemon Trees :

@_real_rizwana -

" Rich source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium."

@mentor_quresha -

" Helps to strengthen blood vessels in our bodies. Used as an anti-inflammatory. Boosts the immune system as it also boosts vitamin levels." 

@dafina_bread -

"Produces lemon fruits"

@aisha_bagha -

"They provide us with lemons which are high in vitamin C "

PAW PAW TREES

 Papaya (Paw Paw) Trees are also very common plants found in our school gardens. The pawpaw is a small, deciduous tree that yields the largest fruit.  Pawpaw trees can grow to a height of about 25 feet. The leaves are dark green, shiny, and oval-shaped with pointy ends. They can grow up to 12 inches in length. In the fall, the foliage turns varying shades of yellow. These trees are famous for their fruit, which ripens in fall. The paw paw fruit is frequently described as custard-like with a flavor that is a cross between a banana and a mango. 

Paw paw trees require adequate irrigation but must be in well-draining soil conditions to prevent root rot and fungus. Be sure to protect young trees from too much sun exposure and wind. These trees have a suckering habit and will grow into a stand of paw paw trees. However, If you’re hoping to yield fruit from a paw paw tree, be sure to plant several genetically different trees in close proximity.

Here are some of the benefits of Paw Paw trees:

1. Medicinal Properties. 

One of the most prominent medicinal benefits of papaya leaf is its potential to treat certain symptoms associated with dengue fever.

 Papaya leaf teas and extracts are often used as an alternative therapy to alleviate uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and heartburn. 

Various papaya leaf preparations are frequently used to remedy a broad range of internal and external inflammatory conditions, including skin rashes, muscle aches, and joint pain. 

The risk of developing asthma is lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, contained in foods like papaya, apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin, and carrots.

Papayas contain high levels of antioxidants vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Diets high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Just as papaya, papaya leaf juice also acts as a potent cleansing agent for the liver, thereby healing many chronic liver diseases, jaundice and liver cirrhosis.

The potassium present in the fruit is a huge supporter of kidney health. It cleans out the toxins deposited in the kidneys and reduced the accumulation of uric acid in the blood. Papaya seeds also play an important part in keeping the kidney healthy. The presence of flavonoids in it helps in keeping the cells from degenerating and prevents the kidney from dysfunctioning.

2. Hair & Skin 

Papaya leaf is frequently consumed orally or applied topically as a way to maintain soft, clear, and youthful-looking skin. When used topically, mashed papaya appears to be beneficial for promoting wound healing and preventing infection of burned areas. 

Papaya is also great for hair because it contains vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production, which keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair. Adequate intake of vitamin C, which papaya can provide, is needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin.

3. Nutrition

Papayas are an excellent source of vitamin C, and one single medium fruit provides 224 percent of recommended daily intake. Papayas are also a good source of Folate, Vitamin A, Fiber, Copper, Magnesium, Potassium and Pantothenic Acid. They also have B vitamins, alpha and beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, vitamin K, and lycopene, the powerful antioxidant most commonly associated with tomatoes.

Here are the benefits of Pawpaw tree as shared by our Instagram family:

@_nussy.nus_ -

" They produce pawpaw fruits which are rich in vitamins (esp. high in vitamin C ) & minerals" 

@_real_rizwana -

" Healthy and filling "

@zainab_akadir -

" Extract from paw paw leaves used to treat symptoms of dengue fever " 

@aisha _bagha -

" Nutritious fruits!" 

MANGO TREES

 Mango trees are also part of our school gardens in Kenya. 

Mangifera indica, commonly known as the mango tree, originates from India. This large tropical evergreen tree is known to grow up to 100 feet. The leaves are elliptic to lanceolate and spirally arranged on the branches. New leaves are a copper color and turn a shiny green once they mature. Mangifera indica produces small white flowers that grow in flower clusters. The flowers are either male or hermaphrodite and both types can be found in a single cluster. The produce ranges in size, shape, and color depending on the variety. Average mango fruit tends to be between 3-5 inches long and egg or kidney-shaped. Their colors include green, yellow, red, and orange with many varieties bearing multicolored produce.

A mango tree requires full sun. The absolute minimum requirement is 6 hours of direct sunlight. However, 8-10 hours of direct sun is optimal. Mangos are accustomed to tropical climates so they thrive in the heat but do not like temperatures below 40°F. 

Benefits 

Here are some of the benefits of planting a Mango Tree :

1. Medicinal use - Different parts of the tree and fruits are used to treat hair loss, stomach pain, skin disorders, and wounds. The leaves also have anti-inflammatory properties and some animal studies have shown that they may also protect your brain from conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's . Mango leaf may also help manage diabetes. 

2. Climate change -Researchers are studying how mango trees can help mitigate climate change. Mango trees have an incredible ability to sequester carbon. Planting fruit trees will also help reverse the effects of massive deforestation and help protect the soil.

3.  Economic benefits - Mango production requires only a few trees on a farm or in a backyard. The economic opportunity is widespread as opposed to concentrating production in the hands of one large farmer. From an economic standpoint, it makes sense that small producers will be in control if the mango price and the actual production increase. Encouraging mango production among small farmers will reduce poverty, strengthen communities and increase family incomes Reducing poverty will strengthen communities.

4. Mango fruit - Mangoes are not only tasty but packed with lots of nutrients. One of its most impressive nutrient facts is that just 1 cup (165 grams) of fresh mango provides nearly 67% of the DV for vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin aids your immune system, helps your body absorb iron, and promotes cell growth and repair. Mango is also a good source of the minerals copper and folate, which are especially important nutrients during pregnancy, as they support healthy fetal growth and development. 

5. Furniture - The mango tree is hardwood. It is strong and durable in which there are many furniture can be built using the wood. 

6. Gives Shade - The canopy of mango tree is big which is great to gives shade. Younger tree has smaller canopy and the older one has bigger size one. The leaves of the tree gives shade. When the weather is too hot, people can go under the tree to stays cool. They will feel refresh when the wind breeze.

REFERENCES: 

https://www.epicgardening.com/mango-tree/

Thank you to our Social Media family for sharing some of the benefits of Mango Trees:

(Twitter)  

@Eric98122385 -

" Shields erosion -Coolant supportive -Oxygen machinery -Fruits producer "

(Instagram)

@mentor_quresha -

"Support healthy skin, Help combat diabetes, Treat stomach ulcers." 

@zainab_akadir -

"Has anti inflammatory properties. High in vitamin C" 

@_nussy.nus_ -

"Boosts immunity, Lowers cholesterol, Regulates blood pressure"

@aisha_bagha -

"Mango fruit...the best" 

@its_winnie_cheche -

"Mangoes" 

@_real_rizwana -

"Tastes good and healthy (esp summer)"

KENYAN SCHOOL GARDEN TREES

 Introduction 

The School Garden project initiated by SOL in collaboration with different partners aims to create a safe and productive environment for the underprivileged communities in rural Kenya. 

Schools are then trained to plant their own trees , hence able to provide food and nutrition for their members. The gardens have also helped provide income. 

We all grateful to all the local organizations, schools, teachers, students and most of all the contributors who have helped achieve this goal. 

This blog series will focus on the different trees which have been planted in the gardens, their location and their benefits. 

Together we can help achieve all the zero hunger goals and end hunger. 

What Does Go Green Mean?

 Initially the term "go green" was used to mean recycling of waste. Nowadays, going green goes beyond the traditional definition of recycling goods; the term ‘to go green’ means much more than just recycling.

"Going green" means to pursue knowledge and practices that can lead to more environmentally friendly and ecologically responsible decisions and lifestyles, which can help protect the environment and sustain its natural resources for current and future generations.

Going green means to live life in a way that is friendly to the environment and the earth as a whole. It could also mean contributing towards maintaining the natural ecological balance in the environment, and preserving the planet and its natural systems and resources. Overall, people who go green take steps to minimize the harm that they do to the environment, such as the carbon footprints they leave behind.

Carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community. 

Take a look at a definition from our The Seed of Life Instagram family. According to them this is what going green means:

@earthlabelapparel 

Going green to me means being able to live a life that supports more natural forms pf life. eg green mind, green clothing, green business, green housing etc. It is choosing better, that's what it means. 

@_real_rizwana

To me go green is preserving animals species home from harm or from being destroyed. I wouldn't want anything to happen to our home, so why would I want to hurt a creature who is unable to talk, to defend him/herself by destroying their home?

GO GREEN - An Introduction

 The term " Go Green " has been widely used since the early 2000's 

The term “go green” seems commonplace today, but the genesis of its mainstream appeal began when Jill Buck, mother of three, started the Go Green Initiative in 2002, according to a May 28, 2010 article by researcher, Rebekah Richards of Answerbag.com Rebekah Richards, Professional Research Staff for Answerbag.com.

In our new blog series we will be looking at what Go Green means and how we can all practice going green in our day-today activities.