Get a Free Tree in NYC Just in Time for Earth Day!
Register now for a free tree!
Spring is finally here, and while many of us think about growing plants outside, there might be an even better way to celebrate the season. Lucky New Yorkers can get a free tree for their home. The New York Restoration Project (NYRP) is giving away 3,500 trees across all five boroughs of New York City starting April 5, 2025, and running through May 4, 2025.
It’s a great chance to add a tree to your home and help make the city a bit greener, just in time for Earth Day on April 22!
A Tradition of Giving Back to the City
NYRP’s tree giveaway program has been around since 2008 and has given away over 75,000 trees to New Yorkers. This initiative is part of the MillionTreesNYC campaign, aimed at adding more trees to the city for better environmental health.
This spring, there will be 26 different native tree species up for grabs, including American Persimmon, American Plum, Beach Plum, Black Cherry, Eastern Redbud, Flowering Dogwood, Pawpaw, Sweetbay Magnolia, Witchhazel, and more.
These trees not only enhance the beauty of your home but also play an important role in improving the overall ecosystem. They’ll help fight climate change, boost air quality, and support biodiversity, all while making your neighborhood a greener, more pleasant place to live. Plus, planting a tree together is a memorable bonding experience that can be a lot of fun.
How to Get Your Free Tree
It’s super easy to grab your free tree! All you need to do is register in advance at www.nyrp.org/freetree. The giveaways are happening at locations across the city on al five boroughs, including parks, libraries, and community centers, with local partners helping out. Families can stop by during designated times to pick up their trees and get some tips on planting and care.
Why Planting a Tree Matters
Planting a tree is more than just a fun way to add some greenery to your space; it’s also a great way to help make the city stronger and more sustainable. Trees help cool down neighborhoods, especially during those hot summer days, which makes the air feel a little fresher and more comfortable. They also improve air quality by soaking up carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, which means cleaner air for everyone.
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Plus, trees help absorb stormwater, reducing the risk of flooding when heavy rains hit. With climate change causing more extreme weather, having more trees is becoming even more important. They’re a natural way to tackle heat waves, storms, and rising temperatures, helping our neighborhoods stay livable and better prepared for whatever comes next. So, planting a tree isn’t just good for you, it’s good for the whole city.
“Expanding our urban tree canopy isn’t just about beautifying our neighborhoods—it’s a crucial investment in climate resilience, public health, and environmental justice,” says Council Member Amanda Farías.
Celebrate Earth Day by Giving Back
With Earth Day around the corner, there’s no better time to get involved. By planting a tree, you’re not just adding a pretty plant to your front yard or apartment, you’re helping to create a healthier and more sustainable city for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time tree planter or a seasoned pro, this is a great opportunity to teach kids the importance of caring for the environment.
“Trees help us fight climate change, cool our blocks, and beautify our neighborhoods!” says Council Member Lincoln Restler. “We are grateful that the New York Restoration Project is helping us fill more front yards, backyards, school yards, and community gardens with beautiful new trees.”
For a full list of tree species, dates, and locations, visit www.nyrp.org/freetree.
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