Luxembourg’s traditional orchards are disappearing at an alarming rate, with around 1,500 fruit trees dying each year due to old age and climate change-related factors. Experts warn that the country has lost 90% of its orchard trees over the past century, posing a significant threat to biodiversity.
To counter this decline, around 30 volunteers from 21 municipalities gathered in Dudelange on Saturday to plant new fruit trees as part of the 50th anniversary of the Environmental and Nature Conservation Syndicate (SIAS). The initiative focused on replanting traditional fruit varieties, which are more resilient to changing climate conditions.
SIAS President Claude Marson highlighted the importance of preserving Luxembourg’s orchard heritage, particularly in regions like Dudelange, known for its cherries. This year, 12 cherry trees were planted in the area to support local fruit culture.
Orchards play a crucial role in biodiversity, providing habitats for up to 5,000 different species. However, extreme heat and drought in recent years have made survival increasingly difficult for fruit trees. Orchard expert Marc Thiel stressed the urgency of planting new trees, warning that current replanting efforts—around 2,000 trees per year—are still insufficient to maintain a sustainable stock for future generations.
Private landowners in Luxembourg can register to have orchards planted on their land for free, as part of efforts to restore the country’s vanishing fruit tree population.
