Corsica department of France, January 2026
The project aims to plant 2,600 trees and shrubs on two wine estates in Corsica, under the Patrimonio appellation.
From late November to mid-December 2025, 1,295 trees of 26 different species were planted thanks to the generosity of the A Tree for You donors. By planting trees, winegrowers want to protect their vineyards from the impacts of climate change – such as excessive heat and drying winds – while encouraging the return of biodiversity to their land. The planting actions specifically seek to support the red-backed shrike, an emblematic species on the island.
Did you know?
Mulching plays a key role in the successful establishment of young trees. It improves soil structure and increases levels of organic matter in the soil, limits weed growth, enhances soil moisture content, and reduces water loss during the summer. Several organic mulches are available, including compressed straw, ramial chipped wood, and hemp mulch. For the plots of land in this project, it was decided to use ramial chipped wood produced locally and sustainably. Hemp mulch presents drawbacks since it limits the return of water to the soil in summer, while straw breaks down much faster than ramial chipped wood. An 8-centimetre-thick layer of ramial chipped wood was applied around the base of the trees to protect them.
Planting was carried out as early as possible in the season so the young trees could benefit from winter rainfall. This approach maximises their chances of survival in the current context of growing climatic stress. Weather conditions were closely monitored to ensure planting took place in optimal conditions, avoiding waterlogged or frozen soils. The planting was made possible thanks to mobilisation of the winegrowers, their families and friends, and pupils from two classes at Patrimonio primary school.
Next steps?
The trees now planted will be monitored over time. In the spring of 2026, after the vegetation has started growing again, pupils from Patrimonio primary school will be able to observe how the trees they planted are developing. During the summer, in the event of extreme heat, two to three watering sessions are planned. A second planting phase will then take place in the autumn of 2026, bringing the total number of trees planted to 2,600.
Many thanks for your support, and see you soon for more news about the project!
