Want a free tree in SLO? You can get these low-maintenance species for no cost
Looking to spruce up your yard for springtime?
A new program allows San Luis Obispo residents to receive free trees for their green spaces.
The Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo on Tuesday launched an initiative to help the city reach its goal to have 10,000 trees planted across the city by 2035, according to a news release.
“This new Tree Planting on Request program gives residents the opportunity to have a tree of their own in their yard or public right-of-way,” executive director Kendra Paulding said in the release. “ECOSLO will supply the tree, and participants will provide the ongoing care and maintenance.”
Residents who take part in the program can choose from five pre-approved tree species, the Environmental Center of SLO said.
Here’s how to get your own tree:
How do I get a tree for my SLO home?
You can pick a free tree for your home by visiting ecoslo.com/plant-trees.
Once on the web page, select the “Pick a Tree” button under the tree planting section and fill out a Google form.
SLO residents will be asked to provide their name, email, address and phone number.
By signing up, you agree to take care of the tree as a “tree keeper,” the Environmental Center of SLO said.
“This is your opportunity for you to pick a tree to be planted at your home at no charge in exchange for your agreement to care for the tree,” the organization said.
What kind of tree can I order for no cost?
San Luis Obispo residents can choose from five types of trees.
The species were selected for their sustainability, low-maintenance needs and compatibility with city infrastructure, the Environmental Center of SLO said.
All trees were approved by city arborist Walter Gault for their ability to “thrive in local conditions while avoiding conflicts with utility lines,” the news release said.
These are the five types of trees you can pick from:
Chinese pistache
Elegant water gum
Gold medallion cassia
Shoestring acacia
Swamp mallee
When will I get my tree?
The Environmental Center of SLO will deliver the first round of trees to residents in May.
If you need help planting your tree, volunteers will be available upon request, Paulding told The Tribune.
The center plans to send out trees in November if people decide to sign up for the program later in the year, she said.
How do I take care of my new plant?
New tree owners are expected to water their trees weekly and provide maintenance such as stakes, ties, mulching and pruning.
People who adopt trees will receive weekly watering reminders from the Environmental Center of SLO.
Why are SLO residents getting free trees?
The goal of the free tree program is to aid the city of San Luis Obispo in planting 10,000 trees by 2035, the center said.
The initiative will also lead to the enhancement of community green spaces across the city, the Environmental Center of SLO said.
This story was originally published March 19, 2025 at 10:00 AM.
