OUR On The Ground
On the Ground in Malawi
Root to Fruit is run by people who know the land, the communities and the conditions trees need to survive.
Our nurseries grow carefully selected species, our team works with community partners and Tree Clubs, and our monitoring focuses on what happens after planting day.
Anyone can count seedlings. We count survival. That is what makes the difference.
Local Knowledge
Local Knowledge
Master Banda, a retired Forestry Officer and respected Village Headman, brings decades of expertise to our work. His insights into species selection, organic pest control, and nursery best practices help shape the foundation of our planting strategy.
Community Engagement
working hand-in-hand with locals
Community participation is essential to reversing deforestation in Malawi. That’s why Root to Fruit works hand-in-hand with locals through the Tree Club model.
Each Tree Club is trained in:
- Site selection and preparation
- Planting techniques
- Aftercare (screefing, weeding, protection from fire, pests, and animals)
Once trees are distributed, the clubs take full responsibility for nurturing them. We continue to provide monitoring and technical support, and encourage friendly competition between clubs to maintain high survival rates.
2024 Snapshot:
Impact in the Field
June 2024 monitoring: 80% survival rate across 39,617 trees planted the previous year
48,000 pots filled and 21,800 seedlings pricked out across 3 nursery sites (Amos, Chintheche Inn, Mazembe) in mid-2024
Tree species included Red Mahogany, Toona ciliata, citrus fruits, and more
Local Seed Collection
Local Seed Collection
To ensure biodiversity and cost-efficiency, Root to Fruit collects many seeds locally. This effort not only improves ecological compatibility, but also gives local residents greater ownership of the reforestation process.