Where to get free trees
Various schemes exist to encourage more trees to be grown in community settings by providing small trees (often with canes and tree guards). These are usually "whips" - baby trees (saplings) only 20-60cm tall - as they are easy to transport, handle and plant. With root balls nearly as big as the above-ground part of the tree, saplings this size also establish very quickly. They quickly become self-supporting, so not needing stakes, and can reach an adult’s head height in around eight years.
Key to being able to apply for free trees is to have the space to plant them - landowner's permission is always required.
Each scheme has different application criteria and deadlines, so it's worth registering with the provider for email updates, including when they open and close.
links are in this column
This column contains a short introduction to the link.
Guidance and Fact Sheets available from The Tree Council's website.
Branching Out Fund
(The Tree Council)
"This Grant fund supports schools, community groups and Tree Warden Networks to plant trees, hedges and orchards. Grants can be between £200 and £2000. All projects must have strong community involvement, and ideally involve children and/or young people."
See also Orchards for Schools and Wildlife & Biodiversity Fund (both listed separately below).
Chichester District Tree Scheme
(Chichester District Council)
New for 2021. Free trees were available to everyone including schools, community groups, individual residents, landowners and businesses. Applications closed 2nd September 2021.
Subsidised trees were offered in 2022. Applications closed 3rd October 2022.
Other support available (please see
website).
CDC has partnered with DEFRA in this project to explore how best to encourage new tree planting and establishment.
I Dig Trees
(The Conservation Volunteers)
In association with Ovo Energy.
Orchards for Schools
(The Tree Council)
"Plant an orchard in your school and be a #ForceForNature "
Schools who have not previously applied can request free orchard tree and hedgerow packs* to inspire teachers and pupils to get outdoors connect, learn, plant and care for trees. Teachers also receive peer-designed resources linked to the national curriculum.
* fruit-bearing, wildlife-enhancing, carbon-storing
Associated free resources useful to anyone planning their first orchard project.
See also
The Orchard Project:
"We are the only national charity dedicated to the creation, restoration and celebration of community orchards.
"Our aim is for every household in the UK’s towns and cities to be within walking distance of a productive, well-cared-for, community-run orchard."
Wildlife and Biodiversity Fund
(The Tree Council)
"This fund places a special emphasis on wildlife and biodiversity, and is a great opportunity for planting projects that are planned with care and thought as to how our animal and insect friends might best benefit, or are situated in a location where animals are cared for, such as rescue centres or city farms, as long as they have charitable status. Grants can supports schools, community groups and Tree Warden Networks to plant trees, hedges and orchards.
"Up to 15% of the amount awarded may go towards the cost of wider ecological enhancements to support wildlife and biodiversity, such as providing or enhancing nesting, feeding and roosting opportunities for birds, bees, bats and insects, and costs associated with pond creation."
See also Branching Out Fund and Orchards for Schools (both listed separately above).
Every year the Woodland Trust gives away hundreds of thousands of trees to schools and communities.
In 2021/22 the Woodland Trust is also partnering with
the Queen's Green Canopy.