written by Bishnu Bhatta, Director of PSD-Nepal
In August 2025, PSD Nepal launched a community-based plantation initiative in the hills of Dolakha, planting 1,000 saplings with local families. The plantation focused mainly on Sichuan paper, walnut, Avacado, Lauthsalla (Himalayan Yew Fruits) and lemon trees, chosen for their long-term environmental and economic value. Nearly one year later, follow-up visits revealed encouraging results: approximately 60% of the saplings have survived and continue to grow despite difficult weather conditions, heavy rainfall, and limited irrigation infrastructure. What began as a plantation campaign has now become a symbol of hope, resilience, and future livelihood opportunities for the participating families.
One of the participating households planted around 150 saplings, primarily walnut and lemon trees. According to the family, nearly 70% of the trees remain healthy and in good condition today. The family has committed to caring for the plantation by watering the trees weekly and fertilizing them every six months using buffalo manure. They expressed strong satisfaction with the program and shared their ambition to expand the plantation further by planting an additional 500 saplings if future support becomes available. The family also suggested introducing guava, pear, orange, and a local fruit called palam to diversify production. Beyond the environmental benefits, they believe the plantation will provide long-term financial stability and reduce their dependence on seasonal crops. Most inspiringly, they noted that neighboring households have already started planting trees after witnessing the success of the project.
Another family reported exceptionally high survival among their lemon saplings, while only a few walnut trees were lost due to heavy rains. They emphasized that planting saplings rather than seeds significantly improves survival rates and allows families to establish orchards more effectively. Although some leaves showed minor insect damage, the plants overall remained healthy and productive. The household expressed optimism about the economic potential of walnut farming, noting that walnuts can sell for approximately 500–600 NPR per kilogram in local markets. They expect the first meaningful harvest within the next five years and see the plantation as a long-term investment for their children and future generations.
A third family described how they regularly use nearby river water to irrigate the trees and plan to continue watering two to three times per month during dry seasons. They also apply buffalo manure and remove surrounding grass to ensure the saplings receive sufficient nutrients. The family hopes to eventually sell fruits in local markets to strengthen household income and improve their living conditions. Looking ahead, they expressed interest in planting avocados, kiwis, grapes, and citrus fruits in future plantation programs. They also shared enthusiasm for integrating beekeeping alongside fruit farming to support pollination and create an additional source of income through honey production. Their reflections highlighted not only economic hopes but also a growing sense of pride and optimism for the future of their community.
The plantation project in Dolakha demonstrates that even small-scale environmental initiatives can create meaningful and lasting impact when communities are directly involved. While the 60% survival rate reflects the natural challenges of plantation work in mountainous regions, it also represents hundreds of thriving trees that will contribute to soil conservation, greener landscapes, climate resilience, and future livelihoods. More importantly, the project has sparked local motivation, with families beginning to see tree plantation not simply as an environmental activity, but as an investment in sustainability, dignity, and community progress.
