As the rainy season approaches, many gardeners, in Zambia, start working on revitalising their home gardens or planting their crops, and this includes planting trees. Planting trees is a simple yet powerful way to not only beautify our neighborhoods but also to retain water underground.
The ongoing drought in Zambia highlights the importance of trees in water conservation. Trees not only capture rainfall but also slow down water runoff, giving it time to sink into the soil. A single tree can intercept over 187 litres of water during heavy rains, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge.
In addition, studies show that even a single tree can sequester up to 22 kilograms of carbon per year, reduce surrounding temperatures by 5-10 degrees Celsius, and improve local air and water quality.
To help you get started in your tree planting journey, in this article, we have tried to answer some of the frequently asked questions that people ask when it comes to planting trees. Hopefully this will help you in your tree planting this rainy season.
Choosing the right tree
Taking the time to do your research will give you a greater chance of growing trees successfully. Plan for the care as well as the long term protection and maintenance of the tree, which will help it grow to full size.
Should You Grow Your Own Trees from Seed?
Growing trees from seed is more cost effective, especially if you are planning on eventually planting large numbers of trees.
However, growing from seed does take time, with some trees taking several years to reach a substantial size. Seedlings are more vulnerable to pests, diseases, and harsh weather, so you’ll need to be diligent with care, including watering and protecting them in their early stages.
If you’re looking for faster results or if you’re new to gardening, buying a young tree from a nursery can be a good way to start. But if you’re in it for the journey and want to contribute to Zambia’s biodiversity, growing your own trees from seed can be a fulfilling choice.
Where Can You Buy Trees in Zambia?
There are several indigenous tree nurseries in Zambia as well as other growers who specialise in different more exotic or fruit trees.
Bonako Zambia - has a selection of trees beneficial to agricultural croplands
Department of Forestry Nursery- 9 Elm Rd, Lusaka
Havillah Gardens - specialise in fruit trees
New Forest Nursery - specialise in palm and fruit trees
Organic Farm7 - has a mixture of seedlings, herbs & fruit trees
Palm Farm Nursery - Kabwe - have an interesting selection of fruit trees
Palm View Nursery - specialists in palms and hibiscus
Plant-a-million - has a variety of trees indigenous and fruit trees
Rose Garden Nursery - has a variety of trees including palms and an interesting range of conifers
Rainlands Nursery - Ndola - have a good selection of indigenous trees
Sandy's Creations Garden Centre - has a variety of trees indigenous, ornamental and fruit trees
Trees for Zambia - specialists in indigenous trees
The good thing about buying your trees from a nursery, is the staff should be able to advise you on the care of the tree. Where possible select plants that have been grown in Zambia, rather than imported as these will be more acclimatised to the range of weather we get here.
There are also many informal growers and nurseries who advertise online and these also can offer good specimens. You can join Facebook groups such as Gardening in and around Zambia, Trees in Zambia, Small Scale Farmers (Farming As Business), The Zambia Orchard Forum, to get advice on buying and growing trees.
How Do You Decide Where to Plant Trees and What Trees to Plant?
When selecting a tree, consider how it will integrate with the surrounding landscape as it grows, including other plants, animals and infrastructure. Some trees like Jacaranda tend to suppress plants near them, creating a 'dead zone.'
While trees have the most significant impact, all forms of ground cover—whether shrubs, vegetables, or even mulch—play a vital role in cooling the environment, enhancing biodiversity, and improving water retention. So, plan holistically to maximize these benefits in your landscape.
Choosing where and what to plant also comes down to a few factors: soil type, sunlight, space, and what you want the tree to do. Do you need shade? Are you looking for fruit? Or maybe you want something to attract birds.
For a more resilient garden, you will need a mix of trees as this will encourage biodiversity in the garden and in the soil, attracting birds, insects and beneficial fungi. So, if possible, grow a mixture of fruit trees, indigenous trees and maybe some exotic trees.
Below are a few more questions that you can ask your nurseryman before buying the tree.
How Big Will The Tree Will Grow?
Trees planted too near the house can be a danger in several ways, either with branches damaging windows or roofs, or the roots lifting the house or cracking the foundation and as they grow thicker and spread. It may take decades for the tree to reach it's full size but you have to think that far ahead to ensure you do not run into any problems.
Remember that trees can drop branches or fall over completely, in heavy winds so do try to plant them where they can't do too much damage and won't fall on top of the roof, should that happen.
How Much Water Will The Tree Need?
Most trees once mature will have developed enough of a tap root to find water even in the drier months, however some trees like eucalyptus and jacaranda take up a huge amount of water during the day. Some trees don't like waterlogged soil whereas some trees have adapted to swampy areas so be sure to choose a tree that is adapted to your area. You can take a look at the mature trees that already exist in your neighbourhood to get an idea of what will grow well.
Generally, newly planted trees will need watering once a week in the dry season to thrive. Try to create a catchment basin area of about at least a half a metre in each direction where water can soak into the ground to the roots of the tree.
Does It Have Edible Fruits or Messy Leaves?
Fruits are a bonus but as much as we enjoy them, they can be a nuisance if they drop too much fruit on the ground so it rots and attracts flies, small animals also enjoy eating them so you may find the tree becomes a home for bats or birds. For example, mangos and guavas are easy to grow trees and provide abundant fruit, but if the fruit is allowed to fall, rot it can become quite unsightly and draw flies and mice. All it means is that for these trees you may have to do a bit more daily maintenance to keep the area tidy.
Some trees are prolific at dropping leaves and many people are militant at sweeping these up. However, it is actually beneficial to simply keep this layer of leaves on to of the ground because it serves as mulch, in both flower beds and on the lawn, it protects the soil in the dry season and will decompose naturally when the rains arrive.
What Trees Can You Plant Near Your House?
Maintain the indigenous trees - usually we remove the trees that are already in the area and replace them with younger ones. We have to realise that the average tree is at least 10 years old before it will give meaningful shade so protect those that are already established.
Here are some popular choices for trees to plant near your house:
Trichilia: This fast-growing indigenous tree thrives in most parts of Zambia. It’s evergreen and low maintenance, making it an ideal choice for urban spaces. Its dense foliage offers excellent shade and support for local wildlife.
Palms: Easily available in Zambian plant nurseries, palms are popular for their low water requirements. However, be cautious—while many palms are well-suited for our climate, some come from tropical regions and may struggle here. Generally, their roots are non-destructive, allowing them to fit well in smaller gardens. Just keep in mind that certain types, like Alexandra palms and King Palms, can have invasive root systems and drop coconuts, which may pose safety hazards if planted too close to your home.
Moringa (Moringa oleifera): Known for its rapid growth and nutritional benefits, moringa is an excellent addition to a home garden. It provides a bushy canopy and can be harvested for its leaves, which are rich in vitamins.
Acacia polyacantha (White Thorn): This tree grows quickly and offers a good source of shade. It’s drought-resistant and attracts various pollinators, making it a great choice for biodiversity.
Markhamia lutea (Nile Tulip): Another fast-growing option, this tree produces beautiful yellow flowers and provides excellent shade within a few years. It adapts well to different soil types and can thrive in urban environments.
Kenyan Croton (Croton megalocarpus): This tree is known for its striking foliage and quick growth, making it an attractive option for gardens. It’s drought-tolerant and can reach substantial heights, providing ample shade. Additionally, its seeds have oil-rich qualities, which can be beneficial for local wildlife.
By selecting the right trees and preserving the indigenous ones, you can create a safe and inviting environment around your house.
What Not To Plant Near Your House
It's important to be cautious about what you plant near your house.
Avoid ficus trees (including the popular ficus benjamina, ficus lyrata, ficus elastica) Eucalyptus, as they are rapid growers which can grow to over 20m tall, but can be invasive, potentially damaging foundations, pipes, and sewage systems. Ficus are popular as indoor plants which is fine as their roots are contained and cannot do much damage.
Although acacia trees are stunning, with their greenish grey bark, delicate leaves and umbrella shape, steer clear of acacia trees near the house due to their thorns, which can be a nuisance in your garden
In addition to the aggressive roots of Jacaranda mimosifolia, jacaranda trees can inhibit the growth of other plants nearby due to allelopathy. They release chemical compounds, or allelochemicals, from their leaves, roots, and fallen flowers, which can suppress the germination and growth of certain nearby plants. This can create a challenging environment for other vegetation to thrive, making it difficult to maintain a diverse garden under or near a jacaranda.
Which Trees Make The Best Street Trees?
Street planting requires careful selection. Choose trees that are hardy, drought-resistant, and have non-invasive roots to avoid future problems with sidewalks and utilities. Indigenous trees are ideal for urban spaces, contributing to the local ecosystem while beautifying the streetscape. Partnering with local councils or community groups can make the process smoother.
Street trees need to be tough! Look for drought-resistant species with non-invasive roots. Good choices include Senna siamea (Cassia), Albizia julibrissin (Persian Silk Tree), and Bauhinia purpurea (Purple Orchid Tree). These trees are hardy, provide shade, and add a splash of greenery to urban spaces.
Which Trees Can You Plant in a Cemented Area?
Got a cemented space? No problem. Opt for trees with shallow, non-invasive roots. Podocarpus falcatus (East African Yellowwood) and ornamental trees like Plumeria (Frangipani) work well. You can also use large containers to give the roots room to spread.
Which Trees will Grow Fast to Give You Shade?
I think we can all agree that the dappled shade under a tree is the best shade
[picture of people sitting under shade tree in a Zambian urban area]
If you need shade—and fast—consider planting Acacia polyacantha (White Thorn), Markhamia lutea (Nile Tulip), or Dombeya rotundifolia (Wild Pear).
Acacia polyacantha (White Thorn) is known for its rapid growth and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a resilient choice for Zambia’s varied climates. Its dense foliage provides ample shade, and its flowers attract pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
Markhamia lutea (Nile Tulip) quickly reaches maturity and produces a beautiful canopy of bright yellow flowers. This tree not only offers significant shade but also attracts birds and insects, enhancing the vibrancy of your garden.
Dombeya rotundifolia (Wild Pear) is a fast-growing tree that can provide shade within a few years. Its large, rounded leaves create a thick canopy, and it blooms with stunning pink to white flowers that are not only visually appealing but also attract various pollinators.
All three trees will provide a leafy canopy quickly, improving air quality and creating a welcoming outdoor space.
Which Trees Can You Plant in a Small Garden or in Containers?
If you have a small garden, no problem. Many trees with proper pruning and care can be trained to grow in a container pot.
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Consider compact trees like Cordia africana (African Cordia), Moringa oleifera (Moringa), or dwarf citrus varieties.
Cordia africana is a great choice as it grows slowly to a manageable height, provides lovely white flowers, and attracts birds while enhancing your garden’s aesthetics.
Moringa oleifera is not only a compact option but also a highly nutritious tree; its leaves are packed with vitamins and minerals, making it a fantastic addition to your diet and a valuable resource for your family.
Dwarf citrus varieties, such as Calamondin or Meyer Lemon, are perfect for small spaces as they offer fragrant blossoms and delicious fruit, and they thrive in containers, making them both functional and beautiful.
These trees are easy to manage and can bring greenery, beauty, and even nourishment to your small garden or patio space.
Which Trees Benefit an Agricultural Area?
Trees are not just for fruits and shade but can have tremendous benefits when integrated into the agricultural system.
In agricultural settings, you’ll want trees that improve soil, provide shade, and act as windbreaks. Consider planting:
Gliricidia sepium (Quickstick) is beneficial for its nitrogen-fixing properties, enriching the soil and improving fertility, while also providing excellent shade for crops during hot months. Its rapid growth makes it an effective barrier against wind erosion, helping to protect sensitive crops.
Leucaena leucocephala (Leucaena) also serves as a nitrogen-fixing tree, which enhances soil quality, and its dense foliage provides excellent shade. Additionally, it can be used as fodder for livestock, creating a sustainable food source within the agricultural ecosystem. They do spread quite prolifically and can become invasive if not managed properly, so be sure to prune regularly and remove any seedlings you find growing in the wrong areas.
Faidherbia albida (Winter Thorn) is unique because it sheds its leaves during the rainy season, allowing sunlight to reach crops during their critical growth period. This tree is also a nitrogen fixer and its deep roots help retain moisture, making it an ideal companion for agricultural areas. It is also used as animal fodder.
These trees not only contribute to a healthier farming environment but also enhance productivity and sustainability in agricultural practices.
Planting a young tree
Young trees do require a bit of Tender Loving Care for the first few years in order for them to become established, even if you plant them in the rainy season, they will still require protection and watering for months after that. For example, a young tree will not be able to withstand a bushfire and is vulnerable to being eaten by livestock.
Is A Square Planting Hole Better Than a Round Planting Hole?
A square planting hole is better than a round one because it encourages the roots to spread out properly, which leads to a healthier and more stable tree.
In a round hole, roots often follow the circular path and become "pot-bound" or tangled, which can stunt the tree's growth and make it less stable in the long run. A square hole has corners that disrupt this circular pattern, encouraging roots to extend into the surrounding soil, helping the tree anchor itself better and access nutrients more effectively.
In the long term, this can make your tree more resilient to wind and more adaptable to different soil conditions.
What Not To Do When Planting a Tree?
There are a few common mistakes to avoid when planting a tree.
Don’t plant it too deep or too shallow—the root flare should be visible just above the soil.
Steer clear of synthetic fertilizers at the planting stage as these may force the plant to grow too fast, leading to a weaker plant in the long run; instead, use compost or organic matter.
Be very careful when handling the roots of a tree as damaging the tips of the roots and hinder the growth of sensitive trees. Water the tree a day in advance of planting to make it easier to remove from the bag and loosen the roots when planting.
Avoid planting in compacted or poor-quality soil without proper amendments like compost, as poor soil quality can hinder the tree’s growth.
On-going Care And Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are crucial for ensuring your young tree thrives. Many community tree planting activities have failed because people just simply left the trees to fend for themselves after planting.
Water your young tree deeply once a week, especially during the dry season, to encourage strong root growth.
Adding a layer of mulch around the base helps retain moisture and protects the soil from heat.
Keep the area around the tree weed-free and monitor for pests to promote healthy early growth.
Try protective planting by companion planting with other water-wise protective plants such as dracena, perennial hardy shrubs like lavender, rosemary and pigeon pea (nyandolo), or next to aloes and other hardy succulents.
Get Started On your Planting Journey
We hope this guide provides you with the information needed to get started on your tree-planting journey. Remember, even planting just one tree makes a difference!
If you’re feeling uncertain, your local garden center can offer valuable assistance. And if you're still unsure, just start planting something small, even a small with a potted plant; every little step contributes to a greener future.
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