Plant a Teriffic Tree

Trees are incredible – they are havens for nature, they help clean our air and create beautiful, natural environments. They literally improve our mental and physical health just by being there – people who live in neighbourhoods with more trees report feeling less stressed than those who don’t, even when other factors are considered. Whether ancient forests, replete with hundreds of years’ growth and awash with the flora and fauna that love old growth woodlands, or a scattering of trees in an urban environment, trees are good for us, and good for the Earth.

Different types of woodland create different types of habitats and some of the most essential and beautiful living things rely on these environments to flourish. Planting a tree creates a future home for lichens and mosses, birds, insects and small mammals. A tree gives shade and soil stability for bluebells, wild garlic, anemone, and a host of other wild plants and animals.

Some trees live for hundreds of years, so planting a tree is a gift of life and environmental benefit to future generations. The tree you plant can be loved by your children, your grandchildren, their children, and so on. Creating green spaces is just one way we can help tackle climate change and negative environmental processes.

Planting a tree has never been easier, now that the Woodland Trust are giving away tree saplings to community groups and schools. They have a variety of packs of trees – and will help you to determine what type of tree will flourish best and most improve your environment. Packs come with a range of canes and guards to help protect the young trees from accidental or natural damage while they’re getting established in the earth.  Whether you’re able to dot a few trees around an urban landscape or are looking to create a safe space for local wildlife, the Woodland Trust will have a selection for you.

You can apply for a tree-planting starter pack now. Schools receive extra packs of information and activities, and even earn points for the school to take part in the Green Tree Schools Award. If you’re part of a community group or an organisation, The Woodland Trust will assess your group’s eligibility and give advice on the best way to improve your local area.

When you know where you plan to plant the trees, make sure you gain the permission of the landowner. You’ll also need the grid reference for your planned spot; the Woodland Trust website will help you with this.

Happy planting.