Strolling beneath India’s lush canopy, you might be curious about the vibrant White and red painted tree trunks. This traditional practice, far from being merely decorative, serves a vital purpose: protecting India’s over 81 million urban trees (a very rough estimate).
A Time-Tested Technique
The secret lies in the paint itself. The age-old method of protecting trees is being championed by various municipalities due to its effectiveness. This method involves applying a thin coat of white lime (calcium hydroxide) and red geru (red ochre powder) in alternating bands painted to the lower 1.5 meters of the tree trunk.
Benefits of the Colourful Coat
The seemingly simple paint job offers a surprising range of benefits:
- Fungal and Pest Control: The contrasting colors aid in the early detection of fungal diseases and insect infestations.
- Natural Insecticide: The alkaline nature of lime discourages harmful insects like stem borers.
- Safer Streets: The reflective properties of the paint improve nighttime visibility, enhancing road safety.
- Preserving Urban Forests: By deterring unauthorized felling and promoting early detection of threats, the paint safeguards India’s vital tree cover.
Promoting an Ancient Practice
Across India, garden department officials emphasize the importance of this traditional technique. They aim to raise awareness among private tree owners and other authorities about the value of this simple yet effective method. City arborists echo this sentiment, highlighting its suitability for mature trees.
India’s colorful tree-painting tradition offers a practical and sustainable solution for urban tree care, with the potential to inspire other cities worldwide.
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