How To: Have A Free Tree Planted

TREE PHILLY

Feeling a lack of green in your neighborhood? TreePhilly can fix that.

Since former Mayor Michael Nutter’s Office of Sustainability set the goal for each neighborhood in Philadelphia to receive 30 percent tree canopy coverage, TreePhilly has planted more than 17,000 trees throughout the city.

You have the option to get a tree planted in your own yard or to help facilitate a tree being planted out on the sidewalk – all for free.

YARD TREE GIVEAWAYS

Each spring and fall, TreePhilly holds giveaways for people to enter for the chance to take home a free tree to be planted on private property. Details for the Fall 2017 giveaway will be available in September, as well as further information about yard trees.

Since fall 2014, TreePhilly has given out multiple grants as part of its giveaway seasons. These grants are awarded to community organizations that are willing to help further the mission of creating a greener city.

More than 10 different types of trees were offered in the spring 2017 yard tree giveaway.

GETTING A STREET TREE PLANTED

TreePhilly offers multiple options for getting a tree planted on public property, including filing a request with Philadelphia Parks and Recreation or participating in a volunteer planting.

Those ready to request a street tree be planted can follow the necessary steps. Trees are typically planted within six to 18 months after the request is received.

Philadelphia Parks and Recreation has compiled a list of trees approved to be planted on public property, along with which season(s) each type can be planted.

MAINTAINING AND CARING FOR YOUR TREE

If you need some guidance in caring for your tree, TreePhilly provides plenty of maintenance resources, as well as services to provide assistance in helping your tree stay healthy.

 

-Text and images by Jonathan Ginsburg.