Local Programs Make Planting a Tree Easy and Inexpensive

Local Programs Make Planting a Tree Easy and Inexpensive

In this 3-part series, Greening Your Home, you’ll learn ways to make your home more energy-efficient while also saving you money in the long run. Caring about the environment and being “green” can be easier than you think as a homeowner. You can start today!

Here’s the final article and it’s all about how to plant trees in your yard (or common yard if you’re in a condo) for much less money.

Did you know that by adding a tree to your yard, you can increase your property value and save on energy costs?

But maybe the cost or your lack of a green thumb is holding you off.

No worries since there are some great programs in the DFW area that can help!

Why Trees Help Your Home

• Trees boost curb appeal. The presence of larger trees in yards and as street trees can add 3 to 15 percent to home values throughout neighborhoods.

• Trees can shade buildings, windows and air-conditioning units. Homes with well-situated trees can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and save 20 to 50 percent in heating costs.

• Trees can help with water drainage.

In addition to increasing property values, studies have shown that trees can reduce crime rates, slow the speed of traffic on residential streets, dampen noise, reduce stress and promote a feeling of wellness. 

Who knew trees did all that in addition to providing clean air?!

Fort Worth has promoted sound urban forestry practices since 1873, when the city charter declared it illegal to hitch a horse to a tree. The city hired its first arborist in the 1920s. Fort Worth is the oldest and longest running Tree City USA in Texas, a designation the city first received in 1978.

The city is currently developing an Urban Forest Master Plan (UFMP). In conjunction with Texas Trees Foundation, the master plan is a road map for managing and enhancing the life and health of all residents of Fort Worth.

Plant Free Trees – The city will give FREE trees to plant in your neighborhood

There are two programs that provide free trees to plant through the city of Fort Worth. Oncor and other companies also offer an annual tree planting program.

The Neighborhood Tree Planting Program will give free 5-gallon trees to plant between the sidewalk and street or in front of or next to your home. This is an excellent community building effort, because in order to get the trees, 25-75 residents must sign up. (I am going to try it with my neighborhood this year!)

The Tree Grant Program provides free trees for street medians, public parks, commercial parkways and other public property, including police and fire stations, libraries and schools. 

Oncor Energy-Saving Trees Program

Oncor partners with the Arbor Day Foundation Energy-Saving Trees Program to give up to two trees per home! Oncor gave away 6,000 trees for its customers in Fall 2022. You can claim up to two trees per home by registering online.

Appreciate – The Heritage Tree Program

The Heritage Tree Program brings awareness to past and present tress that are a distinct resource for Fort Worth. You can learn about their history and locations here. If you’re thinking Earth Day field trip, we are on the same page.

Inform – Tell the city where you want more trees!

If you want more trees in a specific area near your home, work, school, or favorite store tell the city by submitting a quick survey here! You can actually pin on the map where the trees should be planted.

Not in Fort Worth? Move and become my neighbor! Or you can check out these programs:

Denton Community Tree Giveaway

Dallas Planting and Re-Planting Trees

Austin Free Trees

North Texas Cool Schools Programs

When is the best time to plant a tree? Fossil Creek Tree Farm says it best – 20 years ago, but the next best time is today! If you don’t want to wait for a program to provide a tree check your local tree farm for native trees and advice!

Keep a look out for any local community tree programs that might offer reduced-priced trees native to your area. Sometimes these events can be held once a year and include help with planting and how-to’s on tree care.

Many groups are concerned with the tree canopy in certain neighborhoods and want to help homeowners plant trees.

Happy planting!