In the realm of nature conservation, tree transplantation has emerged as a viable method to protect greenery in rapidly urbanizing landscapes. Recent reports, however, indicate that success rates may be lower than expected, prompting an in-depth exploration on the subject.
Tree transplantation involves relocating plants from one site to another in an agricultural field or garden. It permits extended growing seasons for plants, which can be initially cultivated indoors before being moved outside under suitable weather conditions. Large-scale transplantation employs machines like tree spades, while bigger trees necessitate digging, wrapping, or boxing of the root ball before transportation.
Highlighting the importance of preventing unnecessary felling of trees, Delhi’s government approved a tree transplantation policy in October 2020. This requires agencies to transplant 80% of trees affected by their projects to new locations. Furthermore, ten saplings must be planted for every tree transplanted.
The Benefits of Tree Transplantation
Tree transplantation offers several advantages. Young plants can be safeguarded from pests and diseases until they mature. It circumvents seed germination issues with direct planting of seedlings. The technique, although somewhat costly, simplifies gardening operations. Immediate transplanting of bought plants into the ground or containers eliminates many gardening hurdles.
Transplanting mature trees aids in swift green coverage of parks and lakefronts, providing greater environmental benefits than saplings. Moreover, old trees threatened by development projects can be preserved through transplantation.
Concerns Surrounding Tree Transplantation
Despite its apparent benefits, tree transplantation raises several concerns, mostly revolving around the survival rate of transplanted trees. Recent audits by the Comptroller and Auditor-General (CAG) of India revealed that only 54% of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation’s (BMC) transplanted plants survived, a figure way below the national average of 80%.
Trees often lack adequate protection and maintenance post-transplantation. Inadequate infrastructure and questionable methodologies employed by contractors pose further problems. As per CAG, the transplantation methods used are unscientific. Moreover, not all trees are suitable for transplantation. Species differences, root system types and soil considerations must be taken into account before proceeding with transplantation.
Improving Tree Transplantation Practices
To enhance the effectiveness of tree transplantation, concrete measures must be taken. Authorities should enforce stringent penalties to boost the process’s efficiency and productivity. For instance, BMC has levied a fine of Rs 5.1 lakh on contractors responsible for improper plantations.
In addition, agencies should hire experienced horticulturists to ensure appropriate transplantation techniques are applied. Technological innovation is also crucial for improving infrastructure and thereby ensuring higher survival rates of transplanted trees. The journey toward systematic and successful tree transplantation requires a comprehensive understanding of the process, its benefits, and potential challenges. The integration of scientific methods, expert knowledge, and advanced technology can significantly aid in achieving this goal.