Free tree giveaway for Chelmsford residents returns for 2026

Chelmsford residents are being encouraged to help nature thrive on their doorstep as Chelmsford City Council's popular free tree giveaway returns this autumn.

As part of the council's Love Your Chelmsford Space to Thrive campaign, 1,200 free trees will be available between 5 October and 5 November 2026. The scheme aims to create more homes for wildlife across the district while giving people the opportunity to support nature and help tackle climate change.

The giveaway is open exclusively to Chelmsford residents and is available on a first come, first served basis, with one tree available per household while stocks last.

Although the trees are currently young saplings measuring approximately 40 to 60cm in height, they have the potential to become valuable habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife, helping to make Chelmsford an even greener place to live.

Helping nature thrive, one tree at a time

Trees play a vital role in supporting wildlife and creating healthier environments. They provide food and shelter for birds, insects and other animals, improve air quality and help capture carbon from the atmosphere.

Every tree planted through the scheme will contribute to Chelmsford's growing tree canopy, helping to create greener neighbourhoods and providing benefits for wildlife and people for years to come.

Whether you have a large garden, a small courtyard or room for a potted tree, there is a species to suit a variety of outdoor spaces.

Four species to choose from

This year, residents can choose from four carefully selected tree species:

Scots Pine

The Scots Pine is a striking native tree and one of only three conifer species native to the UK. It supports around 1,600 different types of plants, insects and animals, making it one of the country's most valuable trees for wildlife.

Given the right conditions, it can live for up to 700 years and grow beyond 12 metres in height. Those with limited space can plant it in a pot to help restrict its growth.

Wild Cherry

Back by popular demand, Wild Cherry is a beautiful native deciduous tree that brings year-round interest to any garden.

In spring, it produces clusters of fragrant white flowers, followed by small red-purple fruits that are enjoyed by birds and other wildlife. Its oval-shaped green leaves turn vibrant shades of yellow in autumn. When fully grown, it can reach between 15 and 24 metres in height.

Wild Service Tree

The Wild Service Tree is a rare native deciduous tree with distinctive lobed leaves that resemble maple leaves. During autumn, its foliage turns attractive shades of copper and red.

It is known as an ancient woodland indicator species, meaning its presence can suggest a woodland habitat that has existed for hundreds of years. Mature trees typically reach between 8 and 12 metres in height.

Spindle

Spindle is at its most colourful in autumn, when its leaves turn russet and its bright pink and orange fruits appear.

Its leaves and fruits are popular with wildlife, and the tree has an interesting history. Traditionally, its timber was used to make spindles for spinning wool. Today, it is also used to produce high-quality charcoal for artists.

Please note that the leaves and berries are toxic if consumed by humans or pets.

Tree collection dates and locations

When claiming a tree, residents will be asked to choose one of the following collection locations:

• Compass Gardens Park: Thursday 26 November, 10am to 2pm

• Melbourne Park: Friday 27 November, 10am to 2pm

• Bell Meadow Park: Saturday 28 November, 9.30am to 1pm

Members of the council's parks team will be on hand at each collection point to provide advice on planting and caring for the young trees.

Lots of lovely dogs come along to the collection days with their owners to help collect a tree.

Apply early to avoid missing out

Previous giveaways have proved extremely popular, with all available trees being claimed quickly.

Applications are encouraged as early as possible, so head over to the Love Your Chelmsford website to claim a tree.

Updates on tree availability will be shared through the Love Your Chelmsford Facebook and Instagram channels, and residents can visit the Tree Giveaway webpage for planting guidance, aftercare advice and details on how to claim their free tree.

By planting just one tree, local people can make Chelmsford an even better place to live for future generations.