FAQs
About the trees
Do we have to plant a native tree species?
It is very important however that you plant the right tree, in the right place. See the guidance and links on our How to start your project - Cornwall Council for advice on this and other tree planting related matters. We will assist with species selection once your planting site has been confirmed.
Can you give us advice on which tree we should plant?
We are running an online Q&A tree selection advice session with one of our Forestry Team on 126th May 6.30-8.30pm for councils or their nominated group who are making an application. There are limited number of spaces and you can sign up using our online Eventbrite booking system.
You may also have a Parish Tree Warden or local person with the skills and knowledge who could help you.
The online RHS Plant Finder tool is useful for guidance about sizes different tree species will grow to and the type of soil and planting conditions they require.
Are the trees grown in the UK?
All the trees we provide through this scheme will be UK and Ireland sourced and grown (UKISG), regardless of which species you choose.
We’d like to plant more than one tree; is there anywhere we can get more free trees from?
The Woodland Trust can supply schools and community groups with free trees – for eligibility and ordering see Free Trees for Schools and Communities - Woodland Trust. They also have lots of good guidance about planning a Community Wood at Community Woods - Woodland Trust.
The Forest for Cornwall has a list of possible sources at Free trees and the Forest for Cornwall Crowdfunder can also help fund trees.
Can we plant an ash tree?
No, due to Ash Die Back disease we are not supporting the planting of ash trees.
About the location
Can the tree be planted on privately owned land?
Yes, it can be planted on privately owned land but there needs to be good public access or involvement in the site, you need to have the landowner’s permission and have agreed who and how it will be maintained for at least 15 years.
Can you have a look at our proposed planting location and tell us if it’s a suitable site for tree planting and our chosen species?
We can carry out site suitability and utilities checks but you may also have a Parish Tree Warden or local person with the skills and knowledge who could help you.
About planting
How do we go about planting our tree?
For lots of useful advice have a look at the Woodland Trust’s How to Plant Trees - Plant Trees - Woodland Trust
Other
What format does the 15 year maintenance agreement take?
All that is needed is a letter (scanned or photographed and submitted digitally) which gives an undertaking to maintain the tree. This can be from the council, a local group, landowner or volunteer(s). You can upload it now or provide it later before you plant your tree.
We've already planted some trees, can we count them towards the Forest for Cornwall?
Yes, we'd love to add your trees to our data about the number of trees planted. Please let us know about them using the Contact Us link on the Forest for Cornwall webpage.