This scheme to reintroduce black poplars in Hertfordshire is called ‘Nurture through nature’, and is the theme chosen by Nicholas Buxton, the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, which he is implementing in collaboration with Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust.

Native Black Poplars, Populus nigra ssp betulifolia, are majestic landscape trees but sadly one of Britain's rarest trees. They are native to Hertfordshire, but are rare here too, and found in the wetlands and along the chalk streams and rivers of our county. But as old trees reach the end of their lives, and few young trees have been planted, they are in danger of being lost. In fact, Hertfordshire's Environmental Records Centre is aware of fewer than 50 specimens. 

In his year as High Sheriff, in collaboration with Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, he has set a challenge of planting at least 100 more Black poplar trees in Hertfordshire. Do you know of a permanently wet site in a suitable location that has room for a large tree? Might the landowner agree to plant one there? And would you keep an eye on it until it is established? If he can assemble a list of suitable locations, the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority has generously agreed to cover the cost of propagating 100 young trees from its Black Poplar nursery, near Stanstead Abbotts. The plan is to harvest 'strikes' (large cuttings) this autumn and to plant them in buckets of wet soil. These will be distributed before the end of March 2026. In fact, the advice is to keep the young trees in their buckets for 12 months, and – provided they are kept watered – they will be well rooted and ready to plant out in Winter 2026-27. Strikes will also be available to plant directly in suitable wet sites from autumn 2025. If you can think of a suitable site, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with your details and with details of the proposed location. They will collate all replies and revert with further information in the coming months. Please help spread the word.

You can find more information on the High Sherriff’s website.

The ambition is to treble the number of black poplars in Herts. (Contact HMWT for additional information).