Tree planting offers to brighten the landscape
This month, community groups and schoolchildren throughout the UK are donning welly boots to plant a phenomenal half a million free trees from the Woodland Trust. And almost 23,000 of the trees are set to grace the Northern Ireland landscape.
The tree-planting activities are helping to kick-start National Tree Week. Run by the Tree Council, it’s an annual celebration of trees and woods, and this year runs from 23 November to 1 December.
Schools and groups who have missed out this month can apply online now for a free consignment of trees to be delivered next March.
Patrick Cregg, director of the Woodland Trust, said: “Schools and groups in Northern Ireland are making their mark by planting 180 packs, that’s almost 23,000 trees, this month.
“With just 7 per cent woodland cover, Northern Ireland falls well below the European average of 44 per cent. We’re asking everyone to plant a tree or trees for the benefit of the landscape, the environment and wildlife; and we’re offering a number of incentives to help people throughout the country play a part.”
Here’s how to get your tree planting underway:
- Schools, community groups and youth groups: Groups can apply for FREE packs of native trees for planting in school or community grounds. Choose between packs of 30, 105 or 420 saplings. Apply online now at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/freetrees and prepare to get planting next March.
- Landowners: The charity’s MOREwoods scheme is helping landowners, who aren’t eligible for a government grant, to create their very own woodland. The Trust will guide you from start to finish, and will contribute up to 60 per cent of the cost. Find out more at www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/planttrees or telephone 0845 293 5689.
- Plant a tree in your garden: Do your bit for Tree Week by simply planting a tree in your own back garden! You’ll not only enhance the beauty of your own home, but will create a much-needed home for wildlife too. Visit your local nursery or garden centre; or order online at www.woodlandtrustshop.com
The community tree packs have been generously funded by lead partners IKEA FAMILY and Biffa Award, with support from Nicky and players of People’s Postcode Lottery. The Trust’s MOREwoods scheme is supported by Biffa Award, Calor and Dorset Cereals