The Richmond Tree Stewards will host a free tree giveaway at Hickory Hill Community Center on Saturday, October 12 from 9 am to 1 pm as part of Richmond Tree Week. The focus will be on increasing tree canopy coverage in historically underserved neighborhoods in Southside. Some of Richmond’s heat islands are in this area, and temperatures can be 16 degrees hotter compared to areas of our city that have more trees.
Who qualifies for free trees?
Richmond Tree Stewards will give 500 trees away to homeowners in zip codes 23234, 23224, and 23225 only. There are 250 trees available to reserve online starting on September 16 until they are gone. Another 250 trees will be available on the day of the event (Saturday, October 12th). Be aware that if you try to reserve trees and you do not live in an approved zip code, your order will be rejected. Each qualifying household is eligible for up to two free trees.
Is planting assistance available?
If you need a refresher on planting trees, check out the Tree Stewards’ guide on how to plant a tree. Planting assistance will be provided for those who may need it. To be eligible for planting assistance you must:
When reserving your tree online, be sure to opt into tree planting assistance. Note that volunteer staffing is limited and we cannot plant every tree. We will provide planting advice with all trees.
Sign a waiver relieving Tree Stewards of responsibility for damage that might occur during planting.
Be home on Saturday, October 12 between 9 am – 3 pm with a location selected for the tree.
Contain any dogs or pets away from volunteer Tree Stewards while they are at your home.
Please call 811 to ensure you have selected a space for planting that won’t hit any utility lines. Note that trees should not be planted more than a foot deep.
What tree species are available?
The following tree species are available on a first come, first serve basis:
Button Bush
Red Chokeberry
Flowering Dogwood
Elderberry
Fringe Tree
American Hornbeam
Possum Haw Viburnum
Sweetbay Magnolia
Witch Hazel
When selecting a tree to reserve, make sure you have the proper growing conditions for it (including the space for it at its mature size).
How can I reserve my free tree in advance?
Click the button below and complete the tree ordering form.
How can I access low-cost trees if I live outside the accepted zip codes?
If you do not live in a zip code that qualifies for free trees, you can purchase low-cost trees from the VA Department of Forestry’s Seedling Store starting October 1st. These trees can be ordered in bulk for less than $1 — but you may want to coordinate delivery with a neighbor or family friend, as there is a minimum shipping charge of $25.