Chelmsford residents will once again have the chance to claim a free tree this autumn, with 1,200 young trees being made available through Chelmsford City Council’s annual tree giveaway.
The scheme, which forms part of the council’s Love Your Chelmsford Space to Thrive campaign, will run from 5 October to 5 November 2026.
Trees will be available free of charge to Chelmsford residents on a first come, first served basis, with a limit of one tree per household while stocks last.
The initiative is designed to encourage more people to plant trees at home, helping to create new habitats for wildlife, improve local biodiversity and contribute towards a greener Chelmsford.
The trees are supplied as young saplings measuring around 40cm to 60cm tall, but with the right care they have the potential to become valuable additions to local gardens for many years to come.
Four Free Tree Species Available
Residents taking part in this year’s giveaway will be able to choose from four different species: Scots Pine, Wild Cherry, Wild Service Tree and Spindle.
Scots Pine
Scots Pine is one of only three conifer species native to the UK and provides an important habitat for a wide range of wildlife.
It can eventually grow to more than 12 metres tall and, in suitable conditions, can live for hundreds of years.
For residents with less outdoor space, Scots Pine can also be grown in a large pot, which can help restrict its overall size.
Wild Cherry
Wild Cherry returns to the giveaway following its popularity in previous years.
This native deciduous tree produces clusters of white flowers during spring, followed by small red-purple fruits which provide food for birds and other wildlife.
Its green leaves also put on a colourful display during autumn, turning shades of yellow before falling.
A mature Wild Cherry can reach around 15 to 24 metres in height.
Wild Service Tree
The Wild Service Tree is a much rarer native species and is particularly associated with ancient woodland.
Its distinctive lobed leaves turn attractive shades of copper and red during autumn.
When fully grown, the tree usually reaches between 8 and 12 metres in height.
Spindle
Spindle is particularly colourful during autumn, when its leaves turn russet and its distinctive pink and orange fruits appear.
The tree is popular with wildlife and also has a long history of practical use. Its timber was traditionally used to make spindles for spinning wool, while today it is sometimes used to produce fine charcoal for artists.
Residents should be aware that the leaves and berries are toxic if eaten by people or pets.
Where and When to Collect Your Tree
Anyone successfully claiming a tree will be asked to select one of three collection locations.
Trees can be collected from Compass Gardens Park on Thursday 26 November from 10am to 2pm, Melbourne Park on Friday 27 November from 10am to 2pm, or Bell Meadow Park on Saturday 28 November from 9.30am to 1pm.
Members of Chelmsford City Council’s parks team will also be available at the collection points to offer advice on planting and looking after the young trees.
Residents Encouraged to Apply Early
The free tree giveaway has proved popular in previous years, with available trees often being claimed quickly.
Residents who would like to take part are therefore being encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Applications can be made through the Love Your Chelmsford website, where residents can also find further information about the available tree species, planting guidance and aftercare.
Updates on availability will also be shared through the Love Your Chelmsford Facebook and Instagram channels.
The giveaway offers Chelmsford households a simple way to add more greenery to their garden while creating additional habitats for birds, insects and other wildlife across the city.