Extreme Challenge: Planting a Mini-Forest - 18 Months Later

It’s been a year and a half since I set myself the challenge of planting a mini forest, and what a journey it’s been. What started as a personal goal has turned into something much more enduring, rooted (quite literally) in muddy boots, patient observation, and plenty of small, but satisfying milestones.

A visit to the first site

A month or so ago, I took a short walk to the first location where we planted trees. It’s the spot where Dan Lemon and I put about 100 young oaks into the ground – and I’m happy to report that many of them are still alive and looking strong.

You can really see the growth from last year to this year: the branches now have a distinct brown section from last season, and a fresh green layer on top. That green part is all new growth from this spring. It seems they’ve enjoyed the recent weather – it hasn’t been too harsh, and there’s been enough rain so far. All in all, they’re doing quite well.

Planting trees, together

The story doesn’t end there. Earlier this year, my son and I joined a local tree-planting activity on a Saturday morning. We weren’t alone – over 100 people showed up, all ready to dig, carry, and plant. According to the organisers, around 4,500 trees were planted that day.

We added our share to the total – 25 trees together – and had a great time doing it. It was a bit chaotic (in a good way), but there’s something energising about being part of a big group working toward the same goal. And doing it with my son made it even more meaningful.

What’s next?

I haven’t managed to revisit the other planting location yet, but I’m hoping to find time in the next few weeks. I'm curious to see how those trees are doing too. In the meantime, it’s been encouraging to watch how things have developed. Nature takes its time, and I’m learning to do the same.

I’ll keep sharing updates as the forests grow – slowly, steadily, and with a little help along the way.