The City of Cape Town’s Recreation and Parks Department launched Arbor Month with a ceremonial tree planting and awareness event at Westridge Gardens, in Mitchells Plain, on 3 September 2025. The event also acknowledged staff from the department who play a central role in the City’s greening efforts.
This year, Arbor Month highlights the Milkwood (Sideroxylon inerme) – South Africa’s Tree of the Year. Known for its resilience, longevity and heritage value, the Milkwood was celebrated through a symbolic tree planting and a guided walk showcasing the thriving Milkwoods already rooted in Westridge Gardens.
‘Arbor Month is not only about planting new trees, but also about protecting and caring for those trees already established. This past financial year, the City’s Recreation and Parks Department distributed nearly 3 000 trees across Cape Town, thanks to the hard work of our nursery and greening teams. The Milkwood planting in Mitchells Plain is a symbolic reminder of the importance of nurturing Cape Town’s urban forest for future generations,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
‘Westridge Gardens is a true community treasure. Arbor Month gives us an opportunity to celebrate our local green spaces, raise awareness about the importance of trees and encourage residents to actively care for the environment around them. Together, we can make Mitchells Plain a greener, healthier place to live,’ said Ward Councillor Ashley Potts
The event also formed part of the Mayoral Beautification Project, with a Milkwood planted along Morgenster Road, one of Mitchells Plain’s key gateways.
Why Arbor Month Matters
• Trees provide shade, beauty and cultural heritage in public spaces
• They help absorb carbon, cool the city and support biodiversit
• They contribute to healthier, more attractive neighbourhoods and long-term economic value
The City is encouraging residents, schools, businesses and community groups to get involved through initiatives such as the Adopt-a-Tree programme, which empowers residents to water, protect and care for trees in their neighbourhoods.
• Application for Tree Planting
• City plants ‘Adopt a Tree’ seed
‘Planting is only the start. It’s ongoing care that ensures trees grow tall and strong. Together, through daily actions and symbolic projects like Arbor Month, we can grow a greener, healthier Cape Town,’ said Councillor Higham.
WHAT: Arbor Month
INFO: see also Cape Town Green Map
