TreesUpstate is proud to support a healthier, more resilient community through our free tree giveaways.
By planting trees, residents like you directly enhance the beauty of their neighborhoods while contributing to a stronger urban tree canopy. Trees help manage stormwater, reduce flooding, improve air quality, and provide vital habitat for local wildlife.
They can also lower energy costs by providing shade and naturally cooling homes.
Together, these individual actions create lasting impact by strengthening environmental health, fostering community pride, and building resilience for generations to come.
Examples of Species Available at Past Events
(Species selection depends on nursery availability): redbud, red maple, pawpaw, persimmon, Eastern red cedar, tulip poplar, blackgum, shumard oak, swamp white oak, overcup oak, swamp chestnut oak, nuttall oak, baldcypress
TreesUpstate’s Energy-Saving Trees and Storm ReLEAF
TreesUpstate is a 501(c)(3) founded in 2005. This TreesUpstate program is made possible by a grant from The Duke Energy Foundation. Trees help save energy, reduce utility bills, and help clean the water and air throughout the Upstate. Thanks to Duke Energy, TreesUpstate has given away over 36,737 trees!
Grow benefits that last a lifetime.
- Reduce energy costs
- Improve air and water quality
- Reduce air pollution
- By planting the right tree in the right place, you can reduce energy consumption by up to 20% each year.
Questions?
Contact Hannah Farr at Hannah@TreesUpstate.org.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tree species are available?
A variety of urban hardy trees are available. Species lists are posted when giveaway events are posted.
Will they fit in my car?
Yes!
Our free trees are young saplings, selected to make pickup easy. They’re not full-sized trees you’ll need to strap to the roof of your car. These little trees fit comfortably inside most regular-sized cars, SUVs, and other everyday vehicles.
So whether you’re driving a sedan, SUV, or something in between, you should have no problem getting your new tree home and ready to plant!
Small tree. Big future. And no need to bring a truck!
Do I need a truck or trailer to pick them up?
You don’t need a pickup truck, trailer, or special equipment to get your tree home. Just bring yourself, a little space in your vehicle, and a plan for where you’ll plant your new tree!
How many trees can we get?
We give two free trees per household.
How big will they get at maturity?
Mature height and width vary by species. Medium trees, by definition, are up to 50′ tall. Large canopy trees are taller than 50′. If you don’t have an overhead utility conflict, height doesn’t apply. All of these trees are urban hardy.
Does it matter where I live?
Free trees are available to everyone in Oconee, Anderson, Pickens, Greenville, and Spartanburg Counties.
No special experience is required. Our trees are small, easy to transport and ready to get started growing in your yard.
How do I plant the tree?
We provide a planting instructions tag with every tree. Arborists are also available to answer any questions you may have. You can review tree planting resources on our Resources Page.
How can I calculate how much energy I can save with a new tree?
Go to i-Tree Design. i-Tree is a free online software that helps calculate the economic value of trees.
Use the tool to see how a tree on your property can provide benefits such as energy savings, stormwater management, improved air quality, and carbon reduction over time.
Simply enter your address and the type of tree you’re considering planting to explore the benefits your tree could provide as it grows. It’s a great way to see how a small sapling today can become a valuable investment in your property and community for years to come.
