​​Spring has arrived, bringing with it fresh beginnings and renewed hope. Across the city, trees are bursting into bloom, their leaves glowing with shades of green. As we mark Arbor Month this September, Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) is encouraging residents to plan and take part in tree-planting activities.

Leading the City’s greening efforts, JCPZ is calling on schools, businesses, and community groups to join a collective initiative to plant indigenous and fruit trees throughout September 2025.

Trees play a vital role in improving air quality in Johannesburg, a city often challenged by traffic congestion and illegal burning of harmful substances. Indigenous trees not only reduce greenhouse gases but also support biodiversity, creating a healthier, greener urban environment.

Arbor Month is a reminder that the simple act of planting a tree is an investment in the future — one that will benefit Joburg for generations to come.

“Although Joburg is deemed the biggest human-made forest in the world, with an estimate of over 3.2 million trees, JCPZ is dealing with the ongoing illegal felling of these precious trees with an already ageing tree canopy.  We’re calling on everyone to be part of a tree revolution,” said Thanduxolo Mendrew, Managing Director of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo.

Requests relating to emergency fallen trees/branches should be logged with the City of Johannesburg’s call centre on (011) 375 5555 / 0860 56 2874 or alternatively e-mail joburgconnect@joburg.org.za. Tree emergencies include obstruction of streets, trees that have fallen onto properties or vehicles, or trees that have fallen onto the sidewalk, preventing the owner from entering or exiting their property.