Why do we plant trees?
Quick answer from Eartha
We plant trees because they give us clean air to breathe, shade on hot days, and homes for birds and animals. Trees also help stop soil from washing away in the rain. One small tree can grow into a giant helper for our whole neighbourhood!
The longer story
Trees are amazing helpers. Their leaves take in carbon dioxide and release oxygen, the fresh air we breathe every day. A big, healthy tree can help clean the air around it.
Trees also give shade, which can make a playground or street feel much cooler on a hot Australian summer day. Their roots hold soil in place, which stops it washing away when it rains hard.
Birds, possums, insects and lots of other animals use trees as homes, nesting spots and places to find food. Planting native trees is especially helpful because local animals know how to use them best.
That's why schools and communities across Australia hold tree-planting days, like National Tree Day. Every tree planted today could still be growing and helping animals in a hundred years.
Try this at home: Grow a seed
- Plant a seed, like a bean or sunflower, in a small pot with soil.
- Water it a little each day and place it somewhere sunny.
- Watch and draw how it changes each week.
Words to know
- Oxygen
- The part of the air that we need to breathe to live.
- Native
- A plant or animal that naturally belongs in a particular place.
For grown-ups: what is my child learning here?
Age band: 5-8
Curriculum link: Australian Curriculum v9 Science, AC9SFU01
The concept: Trees provide oxygen, habitat and soil stability, making them vital to healthy ecosystems.
More classroom ideas are on our teachers page, and safety notes for families are on for parents.
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