Native Tree Giveaway
Welcome to the 2024 Fall Native Tree Giveaway!
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How does a Native Tree Giveaway work?
First thing first, these trees are FREE — they are also available on a "first come, first served" basis. Here’s how to get them:
- Come to Frontier Park on October 6th and select your trees. There is no limit, as long as supplies last.
- We’ll record some basic info on-site and provide you with instructions to plant your trees.
- Each tree comes with a free stake & shelter if needed - these help trees from being eaten up by little critters!
- Plant your trees! 🌳
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NOTE: Trees range in size from 6inches-4ft. Please be prepared to transport the number of trees you wish to recieve. We also recommend lining the back of your car with plastic or a sheet to avoid loose dirt.
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Why Native Trees?
We're so glad you asked!
A "native" tree is a woody plant historically found in our region (Northwestern PA). Native trees promote local biodiversity and are suited for our microclimate. In other words, trees that are meant to grow in Erie, PA will support the other plants and animals that are meant to thrive in Erie, PA. That's great for us Erie residents!
At LEAF, we want to focus on getting as many native trees (and plants!) into the ground as possible. In partnership with Keystone 10 Million Trees, Leaf offers free trees, shelters, and stakes to dedicated individuals who are willing and able to plant and care for young trees on their property.
This project is part of our ReLeaf Initiative, which has a goal of planting 275,000 trees. 56,742 trees have been planted so far!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What size are the trees?
The trees range in size from 6 in. to 4 ft. Our native trees are in their sapling stage, which means they are "young trees," anywhere from 1-3 years old.
2. How will I get my trees?
Trees are pick-up only. On the day of our Native Tree Giveaway, please come prepared with a vehicle large enough to take the amount of trees you want. Additionally, we recommend lining your car with plastic or another barrier if you'd like to avoid loose dirt!
3. Where are the trees from?
We receive these native trees from Keystone 10 Million Trees Partnership. This year, the trees were selected from Octoraro & Ecotone Nurseries.
4. When should I plant these trees?
You should plant your trees as soon as possible after pickup, and/or keep them watered until planting. Trees can be planted in the fall & spring seasons, but prefer fall because they can establish themselves partly, become dormant over winter, and truly take root in the following spring!
5. What do I need to plant these trees?
Our trees each come with an optional stake, shelter, and set of ties. We recommend sheltering the tree in its early stages to keep it stable. The shelters also deter small mammals from eating the trees. If you are in an urban area, this might not be as high of a concern for you!
At home, you will likely need a shovel and sturdy shoes to accomplish your tree-planting. If you have mulch, give your tree a boost by adding a ring of it around your tree (not all the way to the trunk, though)!
6. How should I plant these trees?
In the ground, obviously. Just kidding! Check out our comprehensive planting guide below.
7. Do my trees need water in the winter?
No. Trees enter their dormant stage in the winter and do not need to be watered.
8. Do I have to track my trees?
Not this year! We'll do the work for you!
For context, Keystone Ten Million Trees Partners requires its trees to be tracked. When you come to pickup trees, we'll gather a little bit of information from you in order to complete this requirement ourselves. All you have to do is plant your new trees!
9. Will you have more giveaways?
We typically host giveaways twice a year during each planting season (spring & fall). This is always dependent on tree availability.
Check out all this tree-planting joy:
Thank you to our event sponsors!
