Step 1: Starting out

Planting trees, hedges and woodland is an enjoyable and rewarding process. It is important to be clear about your objectives from the beginning as this will help you.

Do you wish to plant trees to increase the range of plants and animals – the biodiversity – of the area? Perhaps your interest is to grow fruit trees, provide shelter for stock, to screen off a poor view, or to create a timber or wood fuel resource?

Download our 30 page guide to creating a new native woodland (pdf). This document contains information on everything from outlining your objectives, through funding and planning, to long term care of your trees or wood.

If you own the land you intend to plant on, investigate what type of soil and ground conditions you have. Think about how much space you have, how many trees you need and where the access points are for if you want to bring in a contractor.

If you want to plant on someone else's land, there are a number of things to consider. Do you need to buy the land from them or can you agree a lease? If you are buying, make sure the land is suitable - are there any issues you need to be aware of such as archaeological restrictions or existing habitat designations? It is best to check fully and consult professional surveyors before investing lots of time, money and effort.

If you are planting with your local community, set up a group to help you.

Funding your project

Site assessment

Ground considerations

Planting with your community