Tree Planting | The Gifted Tree

Gift Trees – Our Tree Planting Project in Tuscany, Italy

Tuscany, Italy

Earlier in the month, my family and I were fortunate enough to visit Italy. Our itinerary started in Rome, continued to Naples and down to the Amalfi coast and finished up in Tuscany, the area of The Gifted Tree’s tree planting project. As we drove north into the Tuscany hills, as well as spending the day traveling around the Tuscany countryside, it became readily apparent why the area has the reputation it has. It is well deserved. The central Italian region of Tuscany is known for being one of the most beautiful areas of the country, and it does not disappoint. In addition to its scenery – the rolling green hills, olive groves, vineyards, and wide-open skies – Tuscany is famous for its charming, rustic villages which reflect the history of the region.

World War II and Italy

Unfortunately, part of that history also includes World War II. Due to movies and books, most people remember the war taking place in France, England, and eastern Europe. The fact is, however, since the beginning of the war, Italy, like other European countries, was the victim of numerous airborne attacks. It wasn’t only cities to be in danger, but also specific locations of strategic relevance in the countryside. Germans occupied numerous towns and villages in the area around Florence, and the area was subject to many allied bombing sorties which were quite damaging to the countryside. Besides damage to the buildings and infrastructure of Tuscany, the forests in the area were majorly damaged and areas that used to be tree covered were left bare and in ruins.

Our Planting Project in Tuscany, Italy

Located in one of the most beautiful regions of Italy (Tuscany), the Pomino Forest borders the Casentinesi National Forest Park. Tuscany is one of Italy’s most visited regions because of its architecture, land, gastronomy, and also its preserved natural areas. The area is full of protected green spaces surrounding small villages that are popular among tourists from all over the world, including my family.

The village of Pomino is located 7 kilometers away from the town of Ruffina. This village of 228 inhabitants is particularly known for its production of white and red wines. Around the vineyards, the forest offers unique landscapes to all who visit. Following the destruction of this forest in the Second World War, it was totally replanted in Douglas pine, significantly reducing the former biodiversity of the site. Additionally, this barely diversified stand was thus particularly sensitive to climatic hazards and biological attacks. But thanks to The Gifted Tree, and its non-profit tree planting partners, the forest of Pomino is being restored through its tree planting project in Tuscany. Trees are being planted and the natural regeneration of the existing plants is supported to ensure the future of the forest.

To fortify the forest, Douglas firs are being planted alongside new species including pine, birch, chestnut, beech, pedunculate oak, sessile oak, hornbeam, hops, ash, maple, limewood, and cherry trees. The strategy is starting to pay off as the forest is diversified and strengthened. Today, it is home to a rich biodiversity of animals including wolves who have returned to the area and are now permanently present.

By the end of the project in a few years, two thirds of the land area around Pamino and the Casentino National Forest Park will be converted into a diversified mixed forest, composed of species perfectly adapted to the site’s climatic conditions. Ultimately, the balance between the environmental, social, landscape and economic functions of Pomino’s forest will be restored to what existed before the tragedies of World War II.

Planting Gift Trees in Tuscany, Italy

The Gifted Tree make it easy to plant a memorial or celebration tree in Tuscany, Italy or one of 80 locations in United States National Forests or many countries around the world. Choose the tribute design option you like from one of the six hand-crafted choices. Customize and personalize the message you want to include on the tree planting certificate, and let us know the address where we should send the tribute card. The tribute is sure to show you care as well as help reforest areas that are devastated by fire and climate change, and world war.

October 31, 2023/by Doug Bell

Gift a Newborn the Most Unique Gift Ever

The Gifted Tree is a company dedicated to planting trees worldwide, whether to honor the memory of loved ones, celebrate special occasions, or simply as a thoughtful gift. With a remarkable track record of planting over 100,000 trees across more than 40 countries since 2013, they actively contribute to forest restoration efforts and the fight against climate change. The Gifted Tree team has also spent countless weekends planting trees in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park located close to their office. When you purchase a tree through The Gifted Tree, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company, you can select the number of trees to plant, the planting location and craft a personalized message for the recipient on a custom hand-crafted tribute card. Additionally, when you gift a tree you can opt to receive the tribute card with the certificate of planting yourself or have it delivered directly to the recipient.

The Gifted Tree presents an exceptional opportunity to bestow a distinctive and impactful gift that makes a difference in the world and will be well-remembered and show you care. Trees offer many benefits, including purifying the air, providing wildlife food and shelter, and aiding soil erosion prevention. By participating in their tree planting program, you actively contribute to creating a more sustainable future for our planet.

Why We Buy Gifts for a Newborn

Demonstrating our affection and solidarity towards the parents: Welcoming a new baby is a significant life event, and expressing our support as friends and family can be invaluable. A gift is a tangible representation of our care and willingness to assist the parents in any way possible.

Assisting with the financial responsibilities of child-rearing: Raising a child often entails substantial expenses, making a gift a practical contribution that helps alleviate some of the financial burdens. Even a modest gift can have a meaningful impact.

Celebrating the newborn’s arrival: A gift symbolizes our enthusiasm for the new addition to the family and our optimistic outlook for their future. It’s a gesture that conveys our joy and anticipation.

Creating enduring memories: A gift can be a cherished keepsake that holds sentimental value for both the parents and the child throughout the years. It becomes a lasting memento of love and affection shared during this precious time.

A Tree for a Newborn?

You probably wouldn’t think about buying a tree for a newborn because the child cannot yet appreciate its significance. Well, apply that mentality to any gift for a newborn. But with a tree planting, you purchase something that will grow along with the new baby, last for generations, and help the planet. You can purchase birth trees, each corresponding with a birth month, so the gift is a little more thoughtful and unique. The personalized message and card that comes with your gift is something the child will be able to look at and reflect on for the rest of his or her life. And if you are experiencing difficulty in knowing what to say in your personal message, no reason to stress, the website has a page of heartfelt messages from which you can choose. Knowing there is a living piece of the earth out there, prospering throughout your whole life and even after you’re gone, is kind of cool!

The Gifted Tree is a company with a personal touch, so you can call (800) 984-2101 to speak with a real person and learn more today. If you’re ready to pull the trigger and have an expected newborn entering your life, simply visit the website and select the Celebration Tree package to get the most unique gift the child and parents will receive!

June 5, 2023/by Doug Bell

Tree Planting

When is the Best Time to Plant a Tree?

One of the most frequently asked questions that we get is when is the best time to plant a tree? The best time to plant a tree depends on your climate. Generally, the best time to plant a tree is in the late spring or fall, when the weather is more relaxed, and the ground is still moist, which gives the tree time to establish its roots before the hot, dry weather of summer or the ground freezes in the winter. In either case, be sure to water the tree regularly, especially during the first few months after planting.

At The Gifted Tree, we know how special each one of our trees is. The planted trees are looked after and given every opportunity to grow and flourish for generations; hundreds of years to come. We follow a simple but important recipe to help ensure the success of our trees.

The Recipe for Planting a Tree Success

Choose a tree that is suited to your climate and growing conditions.
Plant the tree in a sunny spot with well-drained soil.
Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first few months after planting.
Mulch around the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Fertilize the tree according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape and health.

The Gifted Tree works with partners who focus on planting where the greatest reforestation needs exist. Our trees have been pre-started in nurseries, using seeds collected from the region where the trees will ultimately be planted. After a year or two in the nursery, the tree saplings, which at this point are from one to two feet tall, are shipped back to the forest for planting in locations of your choosing.

At The Gifted Tree, the species of memorial trees planted range from Oak to Eucalyptus, from fruit and nut bearing trees to large-growing fir trees. The exact species depends on the specific needs of each region of habitat being reforested. Our expert tree planting partners know the best trees to ensure long-term survivability and bring the greatest overall benefit to the region.We won’t and do not give options for species of trees that will not thrive in a given area. The forest, state, or country will be noted on the tribute’s tree planting certificate. Your recipient will thus know the general location of their tree planting, and information is included on how they can learn more about the tree planting project as well as receive a link to virtually view the general area of planting.

Best Occasions for a Gifted Tree

Most gift tree purchases revolve around special occasions. Our celebration tree packages are ideal for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, births, retirement and Valentine’s gifts, giving loved ones, friends, and family something happy and memorable to commemorate a milestone event. We even plant trees to recognize a job well done by a teacher or someone at work. The possibilities are endless.

Often, people aren’t sure what to say or do to express condolences accurately for losing a loved one. A memorial gift tree has proven to help people down the long, painful road of recovery. The idea that a living memorial has been planted in memory of the one lost, is powerful and comforting, and your gift will always be remembered.

Remember that not all significant losses in our life are from the passing of humans. Pets can be just as important to us and are every bit of a family member as many people are. Pet loss trees are a sensitive and special way to tell your loved one or friend that you care and are thinking of them.

It doesn’t matter for the gift tree you are purchasing or where you want it planted. Your new tree will thrive for many years with the proper care our non-profit partners provide. Call our customer care professionals today at 800-984-2101 or visit our homepage to get your order started today!

May 1, 2023/by Doug Bell

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