Chunyu Tree Nursery

The nursery started life as a few rows of saplings in a corner of Derek Shenton's plot in Mfuwe in 1998 and moved to its current home at Chunyu plot in 2003. The priority has always been to grow indigenous trees, to try to replace the large numbers chopped down in the area, and also local shrubs and climbers. Chunyu Tree Nursery grows the saplings outside so they do not need time to adapt before planting. No chemicals are used on the plants in order to keep the environment safe for wildlife. The nursery uses its own compost and makes pesticides from Neem and other plants.

There are three trained and knowledgeable nursery staff, who also work with pupils and teachers at local schools and others in the community. The nursery staff show them how to plant trees and look after them, how to make compost, and introduce other conservation ideas. Trees are sold at a discount, or donated, to help conservation efforts in the area. The nursery is always grateful for any donations of indigenous tree seeds.

Chunyu Tree Nursery key information

• A wide range of indigenous saplings
• Plants can be delivered to Lusaka for a small fee
• Prices of trees start as low as ZMW10.00
• A full list of all plant species available can be sent on request