Join Arit Anderson and Henrik Sjöman hosted by Tony Kirkham, for a discussion of their book, The Essential Tree Selection Guide.

In an era when selecting the right tree is critical for combating climate change and enhancing our environment, they will explore innovative approaches to tree planting and the essential role of trees in providing shade, preventing flooding, and filtering pollution.

Drawing from decades of research, the book’s comprehensive directory offers guidance on choosing the most resilient trees for a changing climate.

Speaker bios:

Arit Anderson

Arit Anderson, a graduate of garden design from Capel Manor College, quickly gained recognition by winning the Fresh Talent category at RHS Chelsea in 2013 and earning a Gold Medal at RHS Hampton Court in 2016 for her show garden focused on renewable energy. As a BBC Gardeners’ World presenter, host of the ‘Growing Greener’ podcast, and contributor to national publications, she actively engages a broad audience in discussions about the future of gardening in a changing climate.

Henrik Sjöman

Henrik Sjöman is the Scientific Curator at Gothenburg Botanical Garden, a Senior Researcher at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, and an Honorary Research Associate at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. His expertise lies in how trees contribute to ecosystem services in urban environments and the practical diversification of urban treescapes. Henrik shares his research globally through publications and lectures to urban planners, landscape architects, garden designers, and tree nurseries.

Tony Kirkham

Tony Kirkham retired in July after more than 40 years of devoted service managing the trees at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Tony began his career at Kew as a supervisor after earning a diploma there and played a key role in transforming the arboretum into a world-class venue, overseeing the care of over 14,000 specimens and planting 150–200 new trees annually. Known for his books, articles, and television appearances, Tony’s passion for arboriculture has endeared him to the public. His collaboration with Dame Judi Dench on a TV program and a research trip to Borneo cemented their status as a beloved duo of “national treasures.”