Seedlings for Schools
Applications open 14 July 2023 and close 13 August 2023 for plantings in July or August 2024.
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Council’s Seedlings for Schools program donates indigenous seedlings (locally evolved species) to plant on the school grounds. Schools select from themed boxes to create various wildlife habitat gardens, bush-tucker gardens, or windbreaks. These themed boxes contain a mix of species of trees, shrubs, grasses, wildflowers, and/or groundcovers.
The seedlings are delivered to schools in late July (beginning of Term 3). Your school could then take part in Schools National Tree Day..
Since 2014, 51,000 seedlings have been planted by students to increase habitat for native wildlife, beautify the school, and create outdoor classrooms. 80 per cent of schools in Hume City have received free seedlings.
Who can apply?
All primary schools and secondary colleges located in Hume City are eligible to apply.
Schools are eligible to apply each year.
What is provided?
The native seedlings come in boxes containing 54 tubestock with each species labelled. Fact sheets are provided for each species, along with educational resources for citizen science monitoring.
Seedlings for Schools orders are placed in late August with the seedlings grown over summer. Schools will receive their seedling order in late July.
Schools can also use these seedlings to participate in Council’s Gardens for Wildlife program. The Urban Biodiversity Officer and trained volunteer Garden Guides conduct biodiversity audits or garden visits with students to identify possible planting sites and garden themes. Advice on site preparation and wildlife habitat creation are offered.
Contact for help
If you have questions about the Seedlings for Schools program or need help with your application, please contact Council's Urban Biodiversity Officer at melissado@hume.vic.gov.au or on 0409 702 086.