Italian tree saplings planted in Kent

Saplings from northern France and UK-sourced plants are also being planted by the Forestry Commission’s Forest Research agency on the Woodland Trust’s Hucking Estate near Maidstone.

Using saplings from abroad goes against traditional advice to woodland owners advocating planting trees from local areas. Normally, local trees are judged best adapted to local conditions.

However, the Forest Research agency said the potential benefits of drawing from a broader genetic stock are being increasingly recognised.

The 3,700 saplings planted include oak, sweet chestnut and wild cherry.

“Trials like this are important,” said Laura Henderson, Forest Research trial manager. “Many of our tree species might not survive if climate change continues at its predicted rate, and we urgently need solutions which dilute the risk and increase resilience.”