Myrtle trees out for Arbor Day

Plant a tree for Arbor Day on June 5. Photo / Sam Stewart

The outbreak of the myrtle rust disease is having an effect on Arbor Day, which is celebrated on June 5.

Conservation organisation Project Crimson asks groups in Waikato, Northland and Taranaki region not to plant any myrtle plants at any planting days until the disease is declared to be eradicated.

The trust says this year, it is important to keep track of all planting.

"For all other plant species, it is advisable to ensure the nursery of origin has been adhering to the NZPPI hygiene protocols and that you keep a record of the number of plants by species, their origin and planting location, as these plants can still be a vector."

It says that planting of myrtle species may be done if plants are not sourced from Northland, Waikato or Taranaki.

Myrtle rust can have serious consequences for various species of plants in the myrtle family, including New Zealand native plants such as pohutukawa, ramarama, rata, rohutu, manuka, swamp maire, kanuka.

Introduced plants, including feijoa, eucalypts and bottle brushes are also susceptible to myrtle rust.

DOC says it is working closely with MPI trying to restrict the spread of the disease, with staff actively looking out for potentially infected plants in the wild.

The impact on native forests will be noticeable if myrtle rust becomes established.

Trees That Count is part of a programme recently launched that aims to inspire New Zealanders to plant 4.7 million native trees in 2017 -- that's one tree planted for every person.

"We're aiming to get more than 10,000 trees pledged and planted for Arbor Day, which also happens to be a public holiday," Trees That Count's project director Tanya Hart said.

"Planting native trees helps restore and enhance New Zealand's environment, by creating habitats for native birds and insects, and encouraging clean air and waterways.

"Crucially, it also makes a difference to climate health in New Zealand by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions.

"If every Kiwi plants just one native tree, whether at a community planting event or in their back garden, this small action will have a major effect against climate change," she said.

For more information, visit the website: www.treesthatcount.co.nz