Free trees for schools and communities
Free trees for schools and communities
Trees help people and nature thrive. Getting more in the ground will give us all a greener, healthier future, so we're giving thousands away free to schools, councils, clubs and community groups to help make that happen.
Who can apply?
Any educational establishment and all kinds of local authorities and not-for-profit community groups, including resident associations, sports clubs, local councils, faith groups, scouts, guides and many more.
Why should we apply?
Trees keep us cool in summer, clean our air and help reduce flooding. They encourage more wildlife with food and shelter, boost our physical and mental health, and help fight climate change too.
The Woodland Trust's free packs come in eight different species mixes of 15, 30, 105 or 420 saplings to accommodate every project and give everyone chance to plant a tree. Whether you're growing an outdoor classroom, sheltering a sports pitch or transforming your neighbourhood, get involved and make a real difference for people and nature where you live, work or play.
When will we get the trees?
Choose your pack(s) from the list below and fill out the application form. The Woodland Trust will make two deliveries a year, in March and November. Currently taking applications for tree packs to be delivered in November 2026. Applications are expected to close in August. We'll let you know within eight weeks if your application is successful.
What's involved if we're successful?
Planting trees is a commitment, but don't worry, we'll give you all the advice you need for your trees to thrive. Bear in mind that as well as physically planting, you'll need to prepare the site and take care of your saplings until they're established enough to need just occasional monitoring. Your pack will include planting instructions and care tips, and the Woodland Trust's planting advice pages are packed with useful information too. Tree Tools for Schools also has helpful tools and guidance that's useful for community spaces as well as schools.
What will we get?
The Woodland Trust's free packs include 15, 30, 105 or 420 saplings. You can request up to four packs as long as the total does not exceed 420 trees. Each tree is 20-60cm tall, making them easy to transport, handle and plant. Please note free tree packs don't include protection, so check out the advice on helping young trees thrive. All the trees supplied are sourced and grown in the UK and Ireland.
Before you apply you'll need to:
- find the six digit grid reference for the land you wish to plant using OS Maps
- get permission from the legal landowner
- read our FAQs for important and useful information which will help your application.
- It's also a good idea to contact your local council's tree enquiries team before you apply, as they may have important guidance for planting in your area.
