Posted by This September, cyclists, schools, and communities will once again come together for the Urban Tree Life Cycle (UTLC) Ride – a unique two-day event that combines cycling with hands-on tree care, education, and community engagement. Organised by Fund4Trees, the ride showcases the crucial role of tree establishment and aftercare in creating greener, healthier cities.
About the Ride
The UTLC Ride takes place on 10–11 September, with two distinct stages designed to highlight both the physical challenge and the community spirit behind Fund4Trees’ work.
Day 1 – The Hard-Core Ride (10 September)
- An 80-mile return cycle from Birmingham to Worcester.
- Re-pollarding of an ancient oak tree to extend its life and support biodiversity.
- Planting of a succession oak by pupils from Cherry Orchard Primary School, using woodchip mulch from the pollard.
Day 2 – The Social Ride (11 September)
- A 15-mile community cycle around Birmingham.
- Workshops with schoolchildren and local groups at three community sites: The Hub, Castlevale, and Ambridge House.
- Young tree aftercare activities, demonstrating how simple interventions can dramatically improve survival rates.
Why It Matters
Planting trees is only the beginning of their journey. Without proper aftercare, many fail to survive. A recent Fund4Trees research project reviewed more than 820 tree-planting locations across four UK cities. The findings were stark:
- Of the 687 trees confirmed planted, only 79% survived.
- Just 3% were unscathed.
- Only 42% remain in good condition.
These results highlight the importance of shifting the focus from tree planting to tree establishment – ensuring that the trees we plant today will thrive for generations to come.
How You Can Support
The UTLC Ride raises vital funds for:
- Tree aftercare workshops in schools and communities.
- Research into tree establishment and survival.
- Projects that secure the future of urban trees.
Among this year’s riders is Simon from Artemis Tree Services, one of our valued trustees, who will be tackling the 80-mile Hard-Core Ride to raise awareness and funds for the cause.
🚴 You can support the UTLC Ride by donating HERE
🚴 Or actually join us on the ride – either the 15 or the 80 miler by emailing russell@fund4trees.org.uk
By joining us – whether in the saddle, in the classroom, or by donating – you’ll be helping us complete the Urban Tree Life Cycle and give our cities the thriving trees they deserve.
Fund4Trees 