Apply For Free Trees By August 10
No kidding. Free. To reach its goal of increasing Seattle’s tree canopy cover to 30% by 2037, Seattle gives away trees each fall to residents in the ReLeaf lottery. ReLeaf doesn’t care if you own or rent. Aside from the online application, the program makes it impossibly easy. Each household can apply for up to four trees for yard or street planting. Need a permit for street planting? The program will help you apply. Not sure how to plant or care for your tree? There’s a free class for that.
Redbud, Cercis canadensis, from Seattle.gov
According to ReLeaf’s sources, in addition to beautifying the city, trees clean our air and water, make the streets more walkable, and help us live longer and healthier. That’s a pretty amazing return for a free tree. You should consider which trees will fit best in your chosen area, and notice where your power lines are, but then apply!
Since starting in 2009, the program has gifted over 6,300 trees. The tree choices change every year. This year, the 12 varieties offered include a showboat Magnolia, the rare Fringetree, a native Vine Maple, and a fig ready to drizzle with honey and wrap in prosciutto.
Magnolia grandiflora, from Seattle.gov
Chinese fringe tree, Chionanthus retusus, from Seattle.gov
‘Desert King’ Fig, from Seattle.gov
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