Landscape gets free tree boost

A third of a million free trees are currently on their way to schools and community groups across the UK thanks to the Woodland Trust.

Almost 19,000 of these are set to brighten the Northern Ireland landscape where schools, beekeepers, sports clubs, scouts and guides are just some of the groups who will be putting trees in the ground this March.

Collective efforts are helping to green local landscapes and tackle Northern Ireland’s lack of woodland cover. The country has a mere 8 per cent woodland cover compared to the European average of 46 per cent.

It’s not too late for would-be tree planters to make their mark: schools, youth groups and community groups, across the UK, are now invited to apply for free trees for planting this November. The Woodland Trust wants to make sure that everybody in the UK has the chance to plant a tree. If your application is successful you will get a pack in either November or March, when the trees are dormant and perfect for planting.

The packs come in three sizes ranging from 30 native saplings to enough to cover an acre of land or create a hedge of around 85 metres.

You can choose from species that will flourish in wetlands, attract wildlife or give year-round colour.

Gregor Fulton is the Woodland Trust’s operations manager and says: “Trees bring so many benefits. They make our schools and neighbourhoods greener and healthier, while providing much-needed homes for wildlife.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for people – of all ages – to come together, roll their sleeves up, and really make a difference. The packs are free and come with all the information you need to get planting. It couldn’t be easier.”

To find out more and to get your November pack visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees The deadline for applications is Friday, 8 September.

The trees are generously funded by Sainsbury’s, IKEA FAMILY and Yorkshire Tea.