Primary schools can claim free Scots Pine saplings for National Tree Day

Primary schools across Ireland can claim one of 2,000 free Scots Pine saplings for National Tree Day, which takes place on Thursday, 1 October 2026.

The Tree Council of Ireland is running the “Planting for the Planet” theme to encourage children to plant trees, learn about biodiversity, carbon capture and the use of timber in homes and communities. Teachers can order saplings and access classroom resources at www.treeday.ie.

Glennon Brothers, a third‑generation family timber business founded in Longford in 1913 and employing over 1,400 people in Ireland and the UK, is supporting the initiative for a second year. The partnership supplies the saplings and educational materials to schools nationwide.

Pat Glennon of Glennon Brothers said the event gives children a practical way to engage with the environment, while Felicity Gaffney, President of the Tree Council of Ireland, highlighted the aim of turning learning into action. Mike Glennon added that the company’s message is “Irish timber for Irish homes, from forest to front door”, noting that for every tree harvested, four new trees are planted.

The Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris, An Giúis) is a native species that supports wildlife and provides a renewable resource for construction, fencing, pallets and packaging.

Source: Dublin Gazette. Photo: Hasan İNCE / Pexels.