RBC’s free tree scheme returns for Rushcliffe residents for ninth consecutive year!
Last updated: 5/11/2026
Rushcliffe Borough Council’s (RBC) popular free tree scheme is back for its ninth consecutive year, helping residents make their properties even greener.
Since the initiative began in 2018, over 14,000 trees have been distributed across Rushcliffe. This year, a further 1,000 hazel, crab apple, wild cherry, rowan trees or guelder-rose are available free of charge for those who live in the Borough.
Trees deliveries will begin from November 23, coinciding with National Tree Week, and will be delivered by Alba Trees. Each tree will arrive as a 20–50 cm sapling, posted through residents’ letterboxes.
It’s part of RBC’s Carbon Clever strategy promoting sustainability and biodiversity in line with the Borough’s significant housing and employment growth in the coming years.
Residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible given an anticipated high demand. Applications are limited to one free tree per household and can be made online and before Friday November 13.
RBC’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment and Safety Cllr Rob Inglis said: “We are delighted to bring our free tree scheme back for a ninth year, providing residents the chance to add to the 14,000 trees we have given out already.
“We are always eager to keep adding to the number of trees within the borough and this scheme helps to support our Carbon Clever priorities and create a greener, healthier and more sustainable environment for our local community.
“This year we’re offering five different species of trees for residents to choose from, so if you want to help wildlife, improve air quality and fight climate change, claim a tree!
“This scheme is always popular, so I encourage residents to apply early to avoid disappointment!”
Tree options available:
Hazel (Corylus avellana) - grows to 12m tall. It has yellow male catkins in early spring, followed by edible nuts in autumn. Grows in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
Crab Apple (Malus sylvestris) - grows to 10m tall, with blossom in spring and summer, hard fruits in late summer. Grows in heavy, moist, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade.
Wild Cherry (Prunus avium) - grows to 30m tall, with pink blossom in spring and fruits in late summer. It grows best in full sun and fertile soil.
Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia) - grows to 18m tall, with large clusters of yellow-white flowers, striking red berries and colourful autumn foliage. Tolerates a wide range of soils with good drainage, prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Guelder-rose (Viburnum opulus) - grows up to 4m tall, with lace-cap white flowers in spring to summer, colourful red berries, and vivid red autumn foliage. it is not shade-tolerate and prefers moist, alkaline soils. Note: The berries are toxic to humans but highly beneficial to wildlife.