Acorn Collection
We need your help to protect the future of Milton Keynes' ancient woodlands.
Have you noticed a lot of acorns on your woodland walks? Milton Keynes’ ancient woodlands are having a bumper crop of acorns this year, so we are once again inviting residents and local schools to take part in our acorn collection project to grow Oak trees for Howe Park Wood, Shenley Wood, and Linford Wood.
These ancient woodlands, rich in biodiversity and history, are primarily composed of Oak and Ash trees. However, in recent years, Ash dieback – a destructive fungal disease – has severely impacted Ash populations. Once infected, Ash trees weaken and eventually die, leading to a significant loss of character and ecological balance within these natural habitats.
To combat this decline and maintain the integrity of the woodlands, we are bringing back our community-driven acorn collection project. The initiative aims to replace dying Ash trees with native Oaks, which share similar ecological traits. Over 950 Oak trees have already been planted as part of this campaign which first launched in autumn 2020.
How you can get involved
- Visit Howe Park Wood, Shenley Wood, or Linford Wood.
- Collect healthy acorns from the ground (look for green acorns without insect holes, and ensure the caps come off easily). We recommend 10 acorns per individual or household, and up to 50 per school.
- Plant the acorns with compost in a pot which is at least 15cm high and has drainage wholes.
- Fill the pot about three-quarters of the way with peat-free compost, with a little added grit for better drainage.
- Place the acorns on their side and cover with 2-3cm of compost.
- Water and place the pot in a very sheltered place out of the rain and with plenty of light. A cold frame or unheated greenhouse is even better! Try to protect acorns from birds and other animals.
- Keep compost moist once germination takes place in spring.
- Repot your oak seedling when it reaches a height of 25cm. Large 2 litre pots are ideal.
Don't forget to register that you are taking part using the form below. Keep an eye out for updates of when to drop off your seedlings in winter 2026/27.
Frequently Asked Questions
Please find answers to frequently asked questions below. If you need any more help and advice, please email outdoorlearning@theparkstrust.com.
Thank you!
We’d like to say a huge thank you to Milton Keynes residents, schools and community groups who planted trees in 2020 and 2022. As a result of their hard work and dedication, 950 oak trees have now been planted in Howe Park, Shenley, and Linford Wood.
These oak trees, which could live up to 300 years, will help replace the huge amount of Ash trees lost to Ash Dieback disease. In some of our ancient woodlands, Ash makes up 60% of the tree canopy, so we need to plant these areas with native species to maintain these important habitats and ecosystems. Oak supports more life than any other native tree and by planting saplings, they are much more likely to grow into healthy trees.
Check out our range of outdoor activities designed to help everyone get closer to nature and give local wildlife a helping hand.
