Planting trees on Tu B’Shvat, the holiday created to remind Diaspora Jews of the annual first bloom of the trees in Israel, is wonderful – especially when they are the right trees planted in their native habitats.
For decades, well-intentioned tree-planting efforts have introduced nonnative pine forests in places where they don’t belong. These large-scale plantings have disrupted Israel’s delicate ecosystems, increasing wildfire risks and displacing native plants and wildlife. SPNI takes a different approach. Backed by a team of Israel’s top environmental experts, and trusted by Israelis for over 70 years, we plant trees where they naturally belong – restoring habitats, supporting wildlife, and strengthening ecosystems.
To truly support Israel’s environment, tree planting must be mindful, strategic, and ecologically sound.
Plant a Tree, Mindfully
In the lead-up to Tu B’Shvat, we invite you to join SPNI’s upcoming webinars to learn more about the significance of the festival and the importance of mindful tree planting.
On January 25, SPNI is honored to host Nigel Savage, founding CEO of the Jewish Climate Trust, who will share fresh insights into the relevance of Tu B’Shvat in the 21st century. Click here to register.
On February 1, join a discussion on the complicated history of tree planting in Israel, and how SPNI is changing the status quo! Click here to register.
This year, SPNI is leading a campaign to plant ecologically suitable trees where they are needed most, ensuring they support the land, wildlife, and communities for generations to come.
In Jerusalem: At the Jerusalem Bird Observatory and Gazelle Valley Park, we plant olive, oak, and fruit trees to attract birds, insects, and provide essential shade.
In the Jordan Valley: At Kibbutz Kfar Ruppin, we’re restoring failed fish farms into thriving wetlands by planting poplars, pomegranates, and acacia trees to create critical nesting and feeding sites for migratory birds.
Across Israel: At SPNI’s field schools from the Galilee to Eilat, we plant trees that restore landscapes and sustain native biodiversity.
This Tu B’Shvat, February 2nd, we must plant trees that are ecologically suitable for our habitat – for Israel’s future.