TreesUpstate is proud to support a healthier, more resilient community through our free tree giveaways.
By planting trees, residents like you play a direct role in enhancing 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 offering shade and cooling homes naturally.
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 c3 founded in 2005. This is a TreesUpstate program made possible by a grant from The Duke Energy Foundation. Trees help save on 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
FAQS
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
Do I need a truck or trailer to pick them up?
No
How many trees can we get?
2 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 > 50′ tall. If you do not have an overhead utility conflict, height is not applicable. All of these trees are urban hardy.
Does it matter where I live?
These trees will be available to everyone in Oconee, Anderson, Pickens, Greenville, and Spartanburg Counties.
How do I plant the tree?
We provide a planting instructions tag with every tree. You can also review tree planting resources on our Resources Page.
How can I calculate how much energy I can save with a new tree?
Go to https://design.itreetools.org/. i-Tree is a free online software that helps calculate the economic value of trees.
