Trees provide shade, habitats, and cleaner air. Many communities run planting projects.
You can help even without a garden.
Join a group
Local conservation charities, councils, and community groups organise planting days, often in the autumn and winter planting season.
Right tree, right place
- Choose native species where possible
- Consider the mature size
- Avoid planting near foundations and drains
- Plan for aftercare, especially watering
Aftercare matters
Many newly planted trees die in their first years from drought. Volunteering to water and maintain trees is as important as planting.
Street trees
Some councils let residents request or sponsor street trees. Check local schemes.
Planting in your own garden
If you have a garden, even a small tree or a native hedge can support birds and insects. Choose species suited to your soil and space, such as rowan, crab apple, or hawthorn in many temperate regions. Plant in the dormant season, water regularly in the first two summers, and protect young trees from rabbits and deer with a guard if needed. See our bare-root planting guide for step-by-step instructions.
This is general sustainability information. Recycling, composting, and disposal rules vary by municipality — check local guidance. Cost and energy savings are estimates and depend on your home and usage.