Community Nursery Partnerships

At Hillier, we believe that thriving green spaces begin with strong roots, not only in the soil, but in the communities who care for them. Our Community Nursery Partnerships bring together our horticultural expertise with the passion, creativity, and local knowledge of grassroots organisations across the UK.

By working side by side with community nurseries, volunteers, and local groups, we help nurture the next generation of trees and the people who care for them. These partnerships focus on long-term stewardship, shared learning, and supporting resilient, sustainable urban landscapes.

The Tree Musketeers (Hackney Marshes)

The Tree Musketeers are a community‑led nursery based on Hackney Marshes, working with residents, volunteers, tree officers, and local groups to grow, plant, and care for trees in places where they might not otherwise be planted. Their work is rooted in passion, collaboration, and a belief that communities thrive when they are connected to the natural world.

Hillier first connected with The Tree Musketeers through our work with Islington Borough Council. The impact of their grassroots approach, and the dedication of their volunteers, inspired us to explore how we could support and strengthen their mission.

Adam Dunnett, Production and Amenity Director, Hillier –

When I visited the community tree nursery this summer, I was blown away by the work The Tree Musketeers have been delivering over many years in their community. Trees grown with real passion and planted and maintained by the community for the community.

What We’re Doing Together

Through a three‑year sponsorship and hands‑on collaboration, Hillier and The Tree Musketeers are working together to:

Support the community nursery with training and advice from our skilled growers.
Share knowledge on propagation, planting, and long-term tree care.
Exchange volunteer experiences between Hackney Marshes and Hillier nurseries.
Celebrate community planting through events and activity days.
Inspire the next generation of urban growers and volunteers.

Partnership Launch – National Tree Week 2025

The partnership officially launched on 26 November 2025 at Hackney Marshes. The day brought together volunteers, Hillier teams, and local supporters for:

A welcome event at the Hackney Marshes Centre.
A film celebrating the work of The Tree Musketeers.
A community planting at the Marshes Orchard.
A guided tour of the community nursery.

This event marked the beginning of a long-term collaboration rooted in shared learning, community engagement, and a commitment to greener urban spaces.

Street Trees for Living (Lewisham & Beyond)

Street Trees for Living (STfL) is a Lewisham‑based charity dedicated to planting and caring for street trees through a community‑driven model. Their network of “tree guardians”, residents, schools, and local groups, take responsibility for the trees on their streets, helping them thrive while building stronger, greener neighbourhoods.

Their impressive 95% survival rate reflects the power of community stewardship and the value of long-term care.

Sophie McGeevor, Chair of Trustees, Street Trees for Living –

“We are thrilled to partner with Hillier, an organisation that shares our deep commitment to community stewardship and environmental responsibility.”

Our Partnership

Hillier and Street Trees for Living have formed a new partnership that brings together horticultural expertise and community action. Through this collaboration, we will:

Provide guidance on species selection, planting techniques, and long-term tree health.
Host CPD sessions, workshops, and demonstrations at Hillier nurseries.
Support volunteers and guardians with practical training.
Become the preferred supplier for STfL projects, ensuring high-quality, sustainably grown trees.
Help STfL expand their model beyond Lewisham as they grow nationally.