Free trees are available through a variety of programs and organizations across the United States, offering opportunities to plant trees at no cost or with a minimal donation. These initiatives are supported by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and corporate partnerships, each with specific eligibility requirements, application processes, and geographic availability. This article outlines the primary methods for obtaining free trees, based on information from promotional blogs, organization websites, and consumer deal resources. All details are derived exclusively from the provided source materials.
Programs Through Non-Profit Organizations
Several non-profit organizations offer free or low-cost trees to individuals and groups, often in exchange for a membership or participation in a community project.
Arbor Day Foundation Membership Program
The Arbor Day Foundation, a privately owned organization, provides trees to members. By paying a $10 membership fee for a 6-month period, members receive 10 free trees and two flowering bushes. The trees are shipped directly to the member’s home or can be gifted to someone else. The selection of available trees is determined by the member’s local climate and hardiness zone. The membership also includes a subscription to the bi-monthly Arbor Day newsletter, a guide to planting and caring for trees, and discounts in the foundation’s online tree nursery. For an additional $20 donation, members can receive a free tree-planting guide and a subscription to the newsletter, with the option to have the donation contribute to the reforestation of America’s forests. To secure this offer, individuals must complete a survey that includes their zip code and questions about the significance of trees. Substitutions may occur based on tree availability.
Separately, the Arbor Day Foundation, in collaboration with the makers of Claritin, offers a free tree through its DiversiTree™ program. This initiative focuses on distributing female trees, which do not produce pollen, to promote botanical balance and reduce pollen levels. To claim a free tree, individuals must visit the program website, enter their address to verify eligibility, and follow the reservation process. Trees are shipped according to the planting season for the recipient’s hardiness zone, with spring shipping occurring between March and May and fall shipping from October to December. Some communities may opt for local pickup events instead of home delivery.
National Wildlife Federation
The National Wildlife Federation provides free native tree seedlings to partners who commit to planting them through local restoration projects or community tree giveaway events. These trees are not available for individual home delivery but are allocated for group planting initiatives. Examples include programs where students receive seedlings to plant at home and care for them. The availability of these seedlings is limited and typically occurs in the spring. To obtain free trees through this program, a group must apply and be approved, after which they receive the trees along with resources on how to hold a successful tree planting event.
Government and Municipal Programs
Government offices at the state and local levels often run tree giveaway programs to encourage tree maintenance education and improve the local ecosystem. These programs are typically announced around Earth Day (April 22) or Arbor Day (the last Friday in April), though some may be available at other times of the year. Residents are advised to contact their city planning office directly or follow relevant agencies on social media for updates on available programs. For example, City Plants, a Los Angeles-based organization, delivers yard trees to residents' homes for planting or plants street trees on behalf of the community.
Retail and Corporate Offers
Historically, some home improvement retailers have offered free trees, but these promotions are sporadic and not guaranteed.
Lowe’s and Home Depot
Lowe’s previously gave away free trees for Earth Day, most notably in 2021 when they distributed 500,000 pine and spruce saplings to shoppers who registered in advance. However, this offer has not returned since and is not expected to be available in 2025. Similarly, Home Depot does not offer free plants, even for plants that are near death; neither retailer provides free plants as a standard practice.
Important Considerations Before Planting
When planning to plant a free tree, several factors should be considered to ensure the tree’s success and safety.
- Assess Your Space: Check for existing trees, overhead power lines, and other structures. The tree’s full-grown size should not interfere with these elements.
- Height Restrictions: Avoid planting trees that will grow taller than 20 feet under power lines to prevent future issues.
- Environmental Fit: Select a tree suitable for your area’s climate. Your local hardiness zone will guide you in choosing a tree that can thrive in your local conditions.
Conclusion
Free trees are accessible through several channels, including membership-based non-profits like the Arbor Day Foundation, community project grants from the National Wildlife Federation, and local government programs. While retail offers from stores like Lowe’s have occurred in the past, they are not a reliable source for free trees. Successful acquisition often requires a donation, membership fee, or participation in a community event. Prospective recipients should verify program availability, understand eligibility requirements, and consider environmental factors before planting.