Sustainable Orillia is hosting its third annual community tree giveaway to help Orillia and surrounding area residents add more trees and native shrubs to their properties.
On September 26, Orillia-area residents can pick up free native trees and shrubs at Tudhope Park (one per household). Trees will be available for pre-order while supplies last. An additional tree can be ordered with a $10 donation to the event.
Thank you to Stone Row Farms for providing the trees and Horizon Tree Company for their generous sponsorship of this event and for providing tree-related advice at the pickup location!
Please complete the registration form in advance to reserve your tree(s).
Trees and native shrubs are an important part of a healthy community. They provide shade, improve air quality, support wildlife and pollinators, reduce stormwater runoff, and contribute to a healthier urban tree canopy.
Choosing native species is especially valuable because native plants are adapted to local growing conditions and provide important habitat and food for local birds, insects and other wildlife. Planting a diversity of trees and shrubs helps strengthen our natural environment and makes our community more resilient.
This giveaway is being held in connection with National Tree Day in Canada, celebrated on September 23rd. It is an opportunity for our community to celebrate trees and take action by planting and caring for them.
Tree or Shrub | Best Planting Conditions |
|---|---|
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers well-drained soil and is well suited to larger spaces. Drought tolerant once established. | |
Red Maple (red in autumn) | Full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Provides bright red colour in autumn. |
Maple (yellow in autumn) | Full sun to partial shade. Prefers well-drained soil with consistent moisture. Provides yellow colour in autumn. |
Full sun to partial shade. Adaptable to a variety of well-drained soils. Provides food and habitat for wildlife. | |
Full sun. Prefers moist soils and can tolerate wet conditions. A deciduous conifer that turns golden in autumn. | |
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers well-drained soil but is adaptable to a range of conditions. | |
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers deep, moist, well-drained soil and plenty of room to grow. | |
Full sun to partial shade. Best in moist to wet soils and is well suited to rain gardens or wetter areas. | |
Full sun to partial shade. Adaptable to different soil conditions and useful for supporting wildlife. | |
Full sun to partial shade. Tolerates dry, rocky or poor soils once established. Good for smaller spaces and naturalized areas. | |
Full sun to partial shade. Prefers moist, fertile soil and benefits from regular moisture. Provides flowers and berries for wildlife. |
Think about where you will plant your tree or shrub before selecting a species. Consider:
When planting, follow recommended planting and care practices to give your new tree or shrub the best chance of becoming established.
Help us grow Orillia’s urban tree canopy and celebrate National Tree Day this September by bringing more native trees and shrubs into our community.
