Our neighborhood tree canopy needs help.
The Pocket Tree Project supports Pocket neighbours in re-greening our neighborhood. Free front yard trees are available from the City of Toronto. The Project can help you get a tree in the next planting season and is offering larger caliper trees through a bulk purchasing plan.
Free Trees, Really?
Yes. The City of Toronto runs a free front yard tree program as part of its’ goal to double the tree canopy in the city by 2050. If you have the space in your front yard, you can get a free front yard tree. City staff will even do the planting and staking for you – you don’t even have to be home.
How do I get a free front yard tree?
Simple. Fill in the form at the bottom of this page and we will take care of the rest! Or download our handy Sign Up Form , fill it in and drop it off at the one of the addresses listed. We’ll send it on to the City to schedule your planting for the next season.
When will my tree be planted?
Depending on when you sign up, your tree will be planted either in the spring or fall.
Can I choose what species of tree?
Absolutely! There are over a dozen native tree species that you can choose from that will grow well in an urban Toronto setting and suitable for front yards. Our Sign Up Form has a list and a brief description of some of the species recommended for our neighborhood. Species include the majestic tulip tree, red maples with beautiful fall foliage, slow growing ironwood, locusts with their dappled light canopy and hardy oaks.
I’d Like a Bigger Tree
The free trees offered by the city are fairly small at about 8 feet tall (though they will grow big fast, with care). You can purchase a larger sized tree through a bulk purchase program offered by the Pocket Tee Project. These trees cost $500-1200 and are 20’ tall. Contact us at [email protected] to find out more.
I’d Like a Backyard Tree
Free trees are only available for front yards but we can help with backyard trees too. We’ve partnered with LEAF who can supply subsidized native trees and shrubs. These cost $150-$250 and include planting, soil and mulching. Sign up for an expert consultation with a LEAF expert at www.yourleaf.org.
I’d Like to Help!
We can use your help. Being a small volunteer group we need extra hands to do outreach to our neighbours. Everything from postering, to leafletting, to knocking on doors to inform Pocket residents about the Project. We have the materials – we need the people! Send us an email to [email protected] and we’ll put your to work re-greening our neighborhoood!
Download the Sign Up Form Now or even easier, fill in the form below!