Trees offer an array of benefits to city landscapes, they raise property values, they cool down hot city streets, they improve water quality, and so much more. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Tree Tenders have a program that plants trees throughout Philadelphia.
The PHS offers two application periods, the current November through April application window is open and approved applications would “be planted the following November.” The application is eligible for property owners only, so renters interested in planting a free tree in front of their home would need to ask their property owners to apply on their behalf. Consider telling your landlord that according to the Philadelphia Property Management Solutions “it is generally considered in the real estate world that a tree can increase a property’s value as much as 20%.”
The list of requirements to acquire a free tree are extensive, the site must be 15 or more feet from light poles, utility poles, and fire hydrants, 15-30 feet from other trees, 30 or more feet from the point of curvature approaching an intersection with stop signs or traffic lights, at least 10 feet from driveways, and much more.
In 2023 Philly Tree Plan, the city’s first-ever urban forest strategic plan was announced. The 10-year plan is aimed at growing Philly’s tree cover in an attempt to combat climate change. In September 2024, Philly received a $12 million USDA Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry grant to support the implementation of the Philly Tree Plan, which includes goals to reach a benchmark of 30% tree canopy in 30 years.
The government is literally giving away trees.
The free street trees are just one of a number of tree planting opportunities offered by the Philadelphia Horticultural Society. PHS is offering both street trees and yard trees, and are offering their services to the Philly suburbs in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery Counties.
Philly Plain Dealer 
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