Due to the ongoing uncertainty of COVID-19, the Trees for Wildlife application for Fall 2020 events has been placed on hold until Spring 2021. Please check back in January 2021 for information on how to apply for tree seedlings for Spring 2021.

Apply for Free Native Tree Seedlings

The National Wildlife Federation provides free native tree seedlings to partners who in turn plant them through local restoration projects or community tree giveaway events. Tree giveaway events typically involve distributing seedlings to individuals (often students) that will plant the trees and care for them at home.

National Wildlife Federation partners must have a plan to care for the trees after planting. Partners include National Wildlife Federation affiliates, Eco-Schools USA, Schoolyard Habitats®, and Community Wildlife Habitat™. Through this effort, the National Wildlife Federation and its partners are creating wildlife habitat, connecting people (especially kids) with nature, and educating students and citizens about the critical role trees play in our communities for both wildlife and humans.

Plan Your Event

The National Wildlife Federation has a Tree Planting and Tree Care Guide that will help you figure out how to (1) plan your event, (2) run a successful event, and (3) care for the trees after the event.

Where to Plant: assessing your tree planting site (Tree Guide, page 6)

What to Plant: identifying what type of native trees are best for your site (Tree Guide, page 14)—we also recommend consulting with the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, where you can look up native trees by zip code.

When to Plant: determining the best time of year to plant (Tree Guide, page 10)

Need inspiration from completed projects? Get ideas from these tree planting event summaries.

Resources for Approved Projects

Here you will find several resources for your tree planting or giveaway event.

Hosting an Event and Planting Your Trees:

How To Plant a Bare Root Tree Seedling (Tree Guide, page 16)

Tell the Press About Your Event

Share Photos on Social Media, Including Our Flickr Page

Caring for Trees:

Watering, Mulching, Tree Shelters (Tree Guide, page 16)

Tree Care Tips (Tree Guide, page 18)

Tree Care Calendar

Activities:

Tree planting events are the perfect opportunity to engage children and youth in environmental education lessons and activities.

Resources for Tree Giveaway Events: