Tree Planting: Plan Ahead For 2026

The days are getting shorter and the leaves are falling from the trees. Nature is shutting down for winter, taking a break before growth starts again next Spring. Winter is the time for tree planting and at Green Belt we are getting ready for another planting season.

Grant aid from the Forest Service is available for areas of one hectare and greater. There is some paperwork to be completed, but there are companies out there who will assist with the process.

Many landowners are now looking at forestry for its environmental benefits, to give a bit back to nature. Planting trees also utilises underused parts of the farm, awkward corners or steep slopes that are too difficult for farming.

Get your land planted by following these ‘tree’ simple steps:

Step 1

Contact your local forester. A list is available from the Department of Agriculture website (www.agriculture.gov.ie)

Step 2

Arrange a site visit for your forester to assess the site for tree suitability and making an application.

Step ‘tree’

Once approval is issued, plant your land and claim the relevant grant and premium. A wide range of grants are available from €1,540 to €2,697 per acre to cover the planting costs. Also, annual payments of between €300 and €441 per acre are payable for 15 or 20 years (depending on farmer status).

And remember along this planting journey, Green Belt will assist you at every step of the way. For further information please contact your local forester, Gerard Dunne on 0866012200 or email gdunne@greenbelt.ie.

Please note that further costs may be incurred for additional fencing, vegetation control or environmental reports.

One, two, ‘tree’, planting is good for you and the environment.