North Herts Council is marking National Tree Week 2025 with a major giveaway of free saplings – and residents across the district are being encouraged to get involved.

Running from Saturday 22 November to Sunday 30 November, National Tree Week is the UK's biggest annual tree-planting celebration, and this year's theme, "Plant Today, Breathe Tomorrow", highlights the growing role trees play in tackling climate change and improving community wellbeing.

The council is continuing its hugely popular planting initiative, which has already seen thousands of free trees handed out to households in recent years. The project feeds into the Greenspace Management Strategy 2022–2027, as well as the Council Plan 2024–2028, both of which commit to greener neighbourhoods, enhanced biodiversity and better-protected open spaces.

Cllr Amy Allen, Executive Member for Environment, said: "National Tree Week is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to take action. Planting a tree today means cleaner air, stronger ecosystems, and a healthier future for our children. Every tree counts in the fight against climate change."

Alan North, Greenspace Service Manager, added: "Our green spaces are at the heart of community life in North Herts. Through careful planning and investment, we're ensuring they remain safe, sustainable, and welcoming for all."

When and where to collect your free sapling

The first collection date for saplings is Saturday, December 6. Residents have been directed to collect their trees from their closest collection point, with 12 located across the county.

For those unable to attend, collection is also available in Stevenage on Tuesday, December 9 and Borehamwood on Wednesday, December 10. Look out for an email from Hertfordshire County Council to find out where to collect your sapling. If haven't received an email with all the details, contact [email protected].

If you haven't received an email, you can find full details on the Hertfordshire County Council website.

Find your nearest greenspace

The council is also encouraging residents to explore local parks and nature areas via its new 'Find My Nearest' feature on the North Herts Council app. The app is free to download on both Apple and Android – simply search North Herts Council in your app store.

National Tree Week provides the perfect moment to get outdoors, support the environment and help grow a greener North Herts—one sapling at a time.