How to plant a tree for free in Wychavon

A variety of trees will be made available to plant, including hedgerow, fruit and woodland species

Free trees are being offered to landowners and community groups to plant this winter to boost biodiversity.

The giveaway in Wychavon forms part of the Trees Call to Action Project, a partnership between Heart of England Forest and three West Midlands councils.

Project officer Emma Pestridge said: "We gave out 108 heritage fruit trees last year to communities and would love to help more... enhance the local landscape."

Wychavon District Council's Trees in the Landscape scheme follows in the footsteps of similar ones elsewhere.

What is the aim of the scheme?

Launched in July 2022, in partnership with Wychavon, Stratford-on-Avon and Warwick district councils, the scheme aims to offset the impact of climate change and biodiversity loss.

It hopes to help landowners and residents with the knowledge and skills needed to plant and care for trees.

Organisers believe a lack of trees and woodland can also negatively impact on people's health, and give them fewer opportunities to engage with nature.

Wyvchavon's trees are being funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which provided £2.6bn of local investment to be used by March 2025.

What varieties of trees are available?

Those looking to do some planting can choose between a range of free tree packs, made up of a range of native broadleaved species.

These include hedgerow packs, which include an English oak tree, woodland for field corners and packs of fruit trees.

Individuals can apply for more than one pack, with each containing the necessary stakes and tree guards.

The scheme is particularly focusing on community orchards to celebrate Worcestershire's heritage, which it describes as "a wonderful asset to any neighbourhood".

Landowners or groups who want to plant on a larger scale can be supported to undertake the appropriate assessments or apply for grants.

The project is keen to hear from landowners, community groups and individuals who want to plant trees

How do I get a tree pack?

People living within the Wychavon District Council boundary, who want to plant trees over the coming winter, can apply by filling in an online form.

The deadline for requesting trees is 3 November.

Trees will be made available for collection on a date to be confirmed in December, and must be planted as soon as possible after collection.

Those who apply must stipulate where they wish to plant and provide a photograph afterwards.