Look after a tree

The Big Tree Plant
You don't need to have planted a tree to be part of The Big Tree Plant. You can get involved by providing some of the essential care that they need to survive and flourish. The more care a tree receives in its first two to three years, the more likely it is to do well.

Care for a local tree

Trees that are looked after by local residents tend to do better than other young trees.
You can help care for your local trees by:
  • watering young trees at the beginning of the growing season (April/May) and regularly throughout the summer
  • weeding and mulching around tree roots to retain moisture and keep weeds down
  • checking guards, stakes and ties are supporting the tree and not rubbing or cutting into it
  • regularly checking trees for signs of damage or distress
You can take on doing any of these things for trees in your area.
The Forestry Commission's website has a free booklet of tree care advice as a downloadable file.
  • Tree Care Guide - The Forestry CommissionOpens new window
  • Help with PDF filesOpens new window
The Tree Council also runs a national Tree Care Campaign, offering advice on simple tree care tasks.
  • The Tree Council's Tree Care CampaignOpens new window

Get advice from a Tree Warden

In many areas advice is available from volunteer Tree Wardens. They look after local trees, gather information about them, and help engage local communities in tree planting and tree care projects.
Find out more about Tree Wardens, and how to become one, from The Tree Council's website.
  • The Tree Council information about Tree WardensOpens new window

Adopt a local tree

Why not adopt a tree through your local council?

Some local councils run adoption schemes for trees. By adopting a tree you agree to support its ongoing care. You can search online for more information on tree adoption schemes or ask your local council if they have a scheme in your area.
  • Find your local council