Households across Wales can now collect a native broadleaf tree sapling, free of charge, as part of an ambitious Welsh Government giveaway to tackle the climate and nature emergencies; an initiative called My Tree Our Forest.
Over 50 collection hubs facilitated by Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales, have opened their doors to the public. Behind them is an army of dedicated volunteers ready to share expert growing advice in choosing the right tree for the right space.
You can find your local hub & opening times by using this interactive map.
Why plant a tree?
As well as sucking carbon from the air, improving mental health and cleaning the air we breathe, broadleaf trees are a haven for birds and wildlife. These kind of trees will be key to tackling the dual climate and biodiversity crisis we now face.
A whopping 295,000 trees are available to plant as part of this scheme, and their planting will contribute to the National Forest for Wales. Households can choose from ten different trees – Hazel; Rowan; Hawthorn; Silver Birch; Crab Apple; Sessile Oak; Dogwood; Dog Rose; Field Maple; and Elder.
Deputy Climate Change Minister Lee Waters said:
“I want everyone in Wales to check out our website to find their nearest tree giveaway hub and pick up a free broadleaf tree. On site, wonderful volunteers will be ready with their expert advice to help you choose the right tree for your space and situation.
“As COP27 draws to a close in Egypt, our continued Team Wales effort in fronting up to the climate and nature emergencies is essential.
“By growing a beautiful tree in your own backyard, you can kickstart your contribution and help grow a healthy and happy Wales for us and our future generations to benefit from.”
Natalie Buttriss, Director of Coed Cadw added:
“Trees have always offered simple and cost-effective solutions to the challenges we all face and through the My Tree Our Forest initiative, we hope to inspire people from all backgrounds, regions and walks of life to get involved, and as a result, feel more connected to the multiple benefits that trees can bring.”
How to claim your free tree
Members of the Welsh public are encouraged to collect a tree from the closest regional hub to them.
To find out where your local tree giveaway hub is, visit: woodlandtrust.org.uk/wales-giveaway and use the interactive map to find your closest hub and check their opening hours etc.
On collection of each sapling, households will receive advice from trained volunteers on how to plant and care for their new tree – there is also lots of information on the Woodland Trust website.
For those unable to attend a hub to collect a tree, a tree can be ordered online and delivered to their door.
Visit woodlandtrust.org.uk/wales-giveaway for more information.
