Portsmouth City Council has launched a Portsmouth 100 tree plantation initiative, partnering with Hilliers to offer heavily discounted trees for residents’ gardens. The scheme supports the city’s ambition to become nature positive whilst celebrating Portsmouth’s centenary.
Residents can save up to 35% compared to standard garden centre prices through this exclusive offer. Three carefully selected species suitable for Portsmouth gardens are available:
- Lucas Hornbeam reaches just 2.5 metres wide after 25 years, making it perfect for compact gardens
- Flowering Crab provides fruit for local wildlife
- Ornamental pear supports pollinators with abundant blossom
Climate change is already affecting Portsmouth, with more frequent heatwaves and intense rainfall causing surface water flooding. Trees provide crucial cooling through shade whilst their leaves slow rainfall, reducing flood risks for homes and streets.
The 2024 iTree Eco Survey revealed Portsmouth has just 8.9% tree canopy cover, well below the 15% recommended for coastal cities. This coverage isn’t distributed evenly, meaning some areas lack tree benefits entirely.
Portsmouth Crown Court Listings – 28 November 2025
The city’s 111,800 existing trees remove 20 tonnes of air pollution annually, lock in 1,440 tonnes of carbon and prevent 35,000 cubic metres of rainwater runoff. Despite these impressive figures, expanding the tree canopy is essential for tackling climate challenges.
Research shows nature connectivity improves mental health and wellbeing, reducing stress, anxiety and depression whilst increasing physical activity and positive emotions.
Trees enhance urban landscapes and deliver benefits beyond their immediate vicinity. Planting through the Portsmouth 100 tree plantation scheme creates lasting gifts for the community and future generations.
The National Lottery Heritage Fund finances Nature Positive Portsmouth through Nature Towns and Cities, a partnership with Natural England and the National Trust.
Portsmouth residents in PO1-PO6 postcodes and Portsmouth City Council housing tenants can access this offer by completing an online form. For updates on Nature Positive Portsmouth and environmental news, residents can subscribe to the Planet Portsmouth e-newsletter.
