Eco-explainer: How to apply for a free tree in Philadelphia

Residents can get free yard or street trees with local programs.

DYK that you can get a FREE tree in the city of Philadelphia? Although the temperature may be warming up outside, it’s time to start thinking about Fall tree plantings.

Trees play a vital role in Philly’s health by reducing air pollution, and providing shade for residents.

Luckily, there are several ways to get a free tree in Philadelphia, whether you’re a homeowner or a commercial property owner.

How to get a free tree in Philadelphia

Apply for a Yard Tree through TreePhilly.

TreePhilly is a program run by the Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department that provides free yard trees to Philadelphia residents. The program runs every spring from April to May and in the fall from October to November. Apply for your yard tree.

Request a Street Tree through Tree Philly or Parks and Recreation.

To request a free tree, residents can fill out an online form. The City will inspect the requested location to determine if it is suitable for planting a tree, and select a suitable tree for the location.

If you’d like a tree sooner, you can find a qualified contractor by emailing StreetTree.Info@phila.gov. As a property owner, you’ll foot the bill (but be helping reduce our carbon footprint faster!)

Attend a Tree Giveaway Event.

Several organizations in Philadelphia host tree giveaway events (with tree care info) throughout the year. TreePhilly and the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society are two organizations that frequently host tree giveaway events.

Maintain your tree.

Once you get a tree planted, you have to maintain it.

Trees need about 10 gallons once or twice per week, especially in the first 2years after planting.

Read TreePhilly for the complete tree maintenance guide.

Trees not only enhance the beauty of our city, but they also provide numerous benefits to our environment and our health. So, why not take advantage of these free tree programs and plant a tree today?

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