How did you select the tree species being given away this year?

 

A: The mix of tree species we selected include a range of sizes, soil type and light needs, and visual appearances. They also represent mostly native or “near native” species, with a strong focus on climate resilience, habitat restoration and adding to our urban tree canopy in King County. We also happen to think they’re all beautiful additions to your yard!

 

Q: What is a “near native” tree?

A: We use this language to describe trees whose growing ranges are shifting due to the effects of climate change. Generally, these are trees which natively grow in climate zones to the south/southeast of our region. These trees provide great opportunities for climate resilience as our regional climate changes over the coming decades.

 

Q: Can I plant a tree under a powerline?

A: Yes, as long as the mature height is no greater than 25 feet tall. If you plant a taller tree species under a powerline, it will unfortunately have to be removed once it grows too tall.

 

Q: How close can I plant a tree to underground utilities or to a building?

A: Trees should be planted 10 feet away from either underground utilities or a building. Always call 811 before digging to locate your underground utilities for free!

 

Q: How long can I wait to plant my tree after I receive it?

A: In general, the sooner you can plant your tree, the better. We recommend waiting no more than two weeks before planting. If it is not raining, water the potted trees often, don’t let them dry out. If you are planting your tree in the Spring, we recommend you water it weekly through the Spring and Summer until the rainy season since your tree will have a limited dormant period to get established.

 

Q: When I plant my tree, how big should I dig the hole?

A: You should dig it as deep as the root ball, and 2-3 times as wide. Keep the lowest part of the tree trunk (or flare) above ground and not covered by dirt or mulch. This is vital the long-term health of the tree. Do mulch around the tree, starting an inch or so away from the tree trunk.

 

Q: How should I handle the roots when planting my tree?

A: In general, you should try to significantly break up the root ball before planting the tree, while preserving as many roots as possible. Extra care is needed with both Magnolia species we are giving away, as they have especially delicate roots.

Q: Which varieties of trees lose and keep their leaves seasonally?

A: Deciduous trees lose their leaves/needles every year, while evergreen coniferous keep most or all of their leaves/needles all year long. Evergreen broadleaf trees keep their leaves year round. 

 

Q: Do any of the tree species bear edible fruit?

A: Yes, please refer to the descriptions in our tree catalog to determine which trees produce edible fruits.

 

Q: Can someone else pick up my tree for me?

A: Yes! We will send you an entry ticket after you sign up for a time slot, and if necessary, you may forward the ticket to the person picking up your tree. They must present your ticket in order to pick up your tree. If the pick-up person is also getting a tree, they may pick up your tree as well as their tree at the same time, even if you signed up for different pick-up appointment times.

 

Q: Can I still pick up my tree if I miss my pick-up appointment?

A: Yes, as long as you arrive before the event ends. As we have no way to store your trees, we give away ALL leftover trees to participants wanting more trees at the end of the event. Be sure to arrive before 12:30 PM on Saturday, March 15 if you want to secure your assigned tree.

 

Q: If I can’t pick up my tree during the event, can I pick my tree up later?

A: Unfortunately, we are unable to store trees for pickup after the event. If you cannot pick up your tree, we suggest arranging for someone else to pick it up for you.

 

Q: Can you deliver my tree?

A: We have extremely limited capacity to deliver trees. If you have significant physical limitations and are not able to arrange for someone else to pick it up for you. Please order the trees you want AND also reach out to us by email at [email protected] to discuss delivery.

 

Q: Can you plant my tree for me?

A: We have extremely limited capacity to plant trees. If you have significant physical limitations and are not able to arrange for someone else to plant them for you. Please order the trees you want AND also reach out to us by email at [email protected] to discuss planting.

 

Q: What if I decide I don’t want my tree after all?

A: As part of our order form for the Tree Giveaway program, we expect a strong commitment to follow through with tree pickup and planting. However, we also understand that life circumstances change. If you are no longer able to plant a tree, please reach out to us at any point, and we will give your tree to someone else.  All unclaimed trees will be given away at the end of this year’s event from 12:30-2 PM on March 15th.

 

Q: Can I get any leftover trees from the event?

A: At the end of the event, we will allow participants to select from the remaining trees. All unclaimed trees will be given away at the end of this year’s event from 12:30-2 PM on March 15th. Please stop by if you want more trees.

 

Q: Will the trees fit in my car?

A: In general, the trees we give away should fit in all standard cars. They come mostly in 2-3 gallon pots, occasionally 5 gallon, and will stand between 2-5 feet tall. In past years, people have picked up trees in sports coupes, convertibles, and bicycle trailers!

 

Q: If I miss this event, can I get a free tree elsewhere?

A: Yes! We hold a tree giveaway every March.  Some cities hold tree giveaways in the Fall including Bellevue, Redmond and Issaquah. Sign up here for our newsletter to be notified of tree giveaway events.

 

Q: Who can receive trees at this giveaway?

A: All King County residents, schools, organizations, faith communities, and small businesses!