The City and local organizations are putting the green in Greenville by raising public awareness about the benefits of planting trees — including hosting giveaways (you read that right... keep reading for free trees) — to encourage you to plant trees on your property.

According to the SC Forestry Commission, urban forestry (read: planting trees in cities) can help offset air pollution and increase health benefits for residents.

What kind of tree should I plant?

Before you plant, the City of Greenville recommends making sure the tree is going to meet your goals:

Research: Make sure the type of tree is compatible with your wants and needs.
Moisture: Check the drainage pattern of the planting site.
Light: Determine how many hours of direct sunlight the planting site receives.
Space: Consider the amount of space available, both above and around, the planting site.
Temperature: Choose trees that are appropriate for your Hardiness Zone.

Where can I get free trees?

To date, TreesUpstate has given away 21,000+ trees, and will give away 3,000 in and around Greenville this spring.

Pro tip: Get there early. Trees are first-come, first-served and they will run out.

Saturday, April 1

Simpsonville Public Works, 110 Woodside Park Dr., Simpsonville | Saturday, April 1 | 9-11 a.m.
Bonus: Greenville City Hall, 206 S. Main St., Greenville | Saturday, April 1 | 11 a.m.-5 p.m. | #PlantGVL is hosting its own tree giveaway at the iMAGINE Upstate festival

https://www.instagram.com/p/CqaxbY_vQvL/Saturday, April 8

Tyger River Park | 179 Dillard Rd., Duncan | Saturday, April 8 | 9-11 a.m.

Saturday, April 22

Flying Rabbit Adventures | 821 Laurens Rd., Greenville | Saturday, April 22 | 9-11 a.m.

Saturday, April 29

Downtown Inman | 7 Bishop St., Inman | Saturday, April 29 | 9-11 a.m.

Saturday, May 5

Duke World of Energy | 7812 Rochester Hwy., Seneca | Saturday, May 6 | 9-11 a.m.