Despite the uncertain weather forecast, more than thirty volunteers—VRI staff members and their families and friends—gathered on Saturday 24 October 2026 to help spruce up the Institute’s grounds. Following last year’s successful planting of trees and shrubs, they continued their efforts to transform the Institute’s grounds into a greener environment.
The main aim of this year’s event was to establish a new row of fruit trees and replace lost shrubs from last year’s planting. With expert guidance from staff of the University Forest Enterprise Křtiny, the volunteers enthusiastically got to work. The youngest participants, children of VRI employees, were also on hand, along with several four-legged companions, all contributing to the cheerful atmosphere.
During the morning, the volunteers worked together to plant more than thirty young fruit trees and approximately the same number of shrubs. All the newly planted trees and shrubs were then protected with fencing and thoroughly watered to give them the best possible conditions to thrive.
However, the event was about much more than simply spending time together. The new planting will not only enhance the appearance of the Institute’s grounds but also support local biodiversity and create a more favourable environment for insects, birds, and other small wildlife. All the newly planted trees are fruit trees, so in a few years we can look forward to their beautiful spring blossoms as well as the fruit they will bear.
Our heartfelt thanks go to all the volunteers who devoted their free time and energy to this shared goal, and to the staff of the University Forest Enterprise Křtiny for their expert advice and assistance.
