DiscoverGardening with the RHSThe Power of Trees: Wellbeing, Wildlife and the Future of Our Woodlands
The Power of Trees: Wellbeing, Wildlife and the Future of Our Woodlands

The Power of Trees: Wellbeing, Wildlife and the Future of Our Woodlands

Update: 2025-11-27
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It’s National Tree Week, and we’re heading into the woods to celebrate the trees that shape our landscapes, enrich our lives, and quietly support the world around us. We’re joined by Sally Bavin from the Woodland Trust, who explains why woodlands are so powerful for both our physical and mental wellbeing. She also shares her fascinating research into mapping the UK’s richest areas of “wellbeing woodland.” We’ll also dive into the RHS’s new Strong Roots report, which uncovers the challenges preventing Great Britain from growing the trees it needs for the future. Plant scientist Louise Jones takes us behind the scenes at the RHS to explore her investigation into a mysterious fungal pathogen that’s attacking lime trees. And finally, we continue our pond series with Helen Bensted-Smith, who reveals the wildlife you can spot around your pond this week.


Host: Gareth Richards and Guy Barter


Contributors: Sally Bavin, Lousie Jones, Helen Bensted-Smith


Links:


BIO-well research


Ancient forgotten forests need our help


Native trees to plant in small gardens


State of the UK's Woods and Trees 2025


Submit to the natures calendar project


Strong Roots report


Lime Tilia Leaf Blotch Report Form


Write in with your gardening questions to: podcasts@rhs.org.uk



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The Power of Trees: Wellbeing, Wildlife and the Future of Our Woodlands

The Power of Trees: Wellbeing, Wildlife and the Future of Our Woodlands

Royal Horticultural Society