There’s never been a more important time to understand the role of trees in our cities. Join arboriculturalist Greg Packham for a guided tour of Chelsea Physic Garden, where you’ll explore more than 100 species of trees, including some rarely seen in the UK.

From the largest outdoor fruiting olive tree in Britain to the most northerly outdoor grapefruit tree in the world, the Garden showcases how diverse species can thrive in urban conditions. You’ll also encounter trees like pomegranate, avocado, ginkgo, and eucalyptus – all growing successfully in the heart of London.

Greg will discuss which trees are best suited to future climate conditions, focusing on resilience, biodiversity, and the environmental benefits they provide. Discover how the right tree in the right place can cool surrounding areas, improve air quality, reduce flood risk, and support soil health.

Studies have shown that spaces like Chelsea Physic Garden and Kew Gardens can reduce urban temperatures by up to 5°C during heatwaves, making them critical assets for climate adaptation.

Whether you’re involved in urban greening, community planting, or simply interested in what trees can do for the future, this tour offers expert insight and real-world examples from one of London’s oldest and most fascinating botanical spaces.

Teacher’s Bio:

Greg Packman

Greg Packman is a multi-award winning arboriculturist working in London, specialising in tree management in urban parks. Greg has worked in locations such as Hyde Park, St James’s Park, City of London, Epping Forest, Inner Temple Gardens and Brompton Cemetery amongst other locations. Greg’s work focuses on tree health, tree risk management, landscape management and ecological management.

Greg also runs a tree walk and education programme in a range of locations, aimed at connecting people and helping them learn more about trees. Covering a range of guided walks, short courses and presentations, Greg’s other topics include winter and summer tree identification; ancient trees; folklore and mythology of trees; trees & ecology; urban tree management; tree pests and diseases and more.

Website: https://www.gregtalkstrees.com