Cary residents will once again have the chance to add a free native tree to their yards through the town’s My Tree, Our Tree program. The fall giveaway is scheduled for Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 9 a.m. to noon. Registration is required, and each household may receive one tree.
How the Program Works
The initiative is designed to help residents expand the local tree canopy with species that are adapted to the region. This year’s selection includes Black Gum, Fringe Tree, American Linden, Silky Dogwood, and Spicebush. Each choice has different benefits, from providing shade to attracting pollinators.
Participants register in advance on the town’s website and then pick up their chosen tree at the event. Along with the tree, residents receive planting instructions, a how-to video from a town arborist, and advice on long-term care.
Why It Matters
Town officials emphasize that native trees contribute to healthier neighborhoods. They reduce stormwater runoff, lower summer temperatures, capture carbon, and provide food and shelter for wildlife. The program also makes trees accessible to households that might not otherwise prioritize or afford landscaping additions.
Tips for Participants
Residents are encouraged to match the species to their property. Some trees grow tall and require open space, while others are suited for understory planting or smaller yards. Proper planting depth, careful mulching, and regular watering during the first few years are essential for success.
Part of a Larger Effort
The tree giveaway is one part of Cary’s broader urban forestry strategy. Expanding the town’s tree canopy has been a focus of recent planning, with the goal of balancing growth with environmental health. By placing trees directly in residents’ hands, the town aims to strengthen both private yards and the community’s overall landscape.
How to Register
Click here or visit https://nccaryweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/search.html?display=detail&module=AR&primarycode=ENVI0059 to register.
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