Where to Plant Trees in Israel

Israel is a country that is known for its arid and desert-like climate. However, in the past century, Israel has transformed into a land rich in vegetation and greenery. This miraculous transformation is largely due to the dedication of the Jewish National Fund (JNF) and the millions of trees that have been planted all over the country.

Coastal Plains and Mediterranean Climate

The coastal regions of Israel, including the cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa, benefit from the Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. This climate is optimal for planting a variety of trees, including olive trees, pomegranate trees, citrus trees, and palm trees. These regions have also shown success in growing natural forests, such as the Carmel Forest and the Mount Tabor Forest.

Central Highlands and Semi-Arid Climate

The central region of Israel, including Jerusalem and the Judean Hills, is characterized by a semi-arid climate with hot summers and cold winters. Therefore, drought-resistant trees are recommended for planting in this region. Trees such as acacia, tamarisk, and cypress are well-suited for this type of climate.

Negev Desert and Arid Climate

The Negev Desert covers more than half of Israel's land area and has an arid climate, making it a challenging region for planting trees. However, the ability to plant trees in the Negev is crucial to the country's efforts for afforestation and land reclamation. The JNF has implemented various initiatives to make the planting of trees possible in this region, including drip irrigation and the use of drought-resistant species such as the carob tree, the date palm, and the eucalyptus tree.

Jordan River Valley and Tropical Climate

The Jordan River Valley, including the city of Eilat, is characterized by a tropical climate with hot temperatures year-round. This region is known for its unique flora and fauna, which includes the Acacia tree, the Euphorbia plant, and the Tamarix tree. The JNF has also initiated projects in this region to plant other species of trees such as the palm tree.

Conclusion

The planting of trees in Israel is an ongoing effort that benefits both the environment and the people. The JNF's dedication to greening the country has led to the transformation of the landscape and the creation of diverse ecosystems. Whether it's the Mediterranean climate of the coastal plains, the semi-arid climate of the central highlands, the arid climate of the Negev, or the tropical climate of the Jordan River Valley, there are trees that can be planted to make Israel green and sustainable.