GBG is realizing its goal of 100,000 trees through a variety of planting programs that are designed to get trees planted in areas of need across the city while assuring proper stewardship so that trees will mature and contribute to the urban tree canopy.

While our planting programs are designed with specific audiences and planting locations in mind, each one incorporates elements of stewardship and public education about the benefits of a healthy urban tree canopy for the city.

Boston Tree Parties

During the spring and fall planting seasons, large site tree plantings take place around the city in parks, playgrounds, schools yards, and other properties where volunteer teams can join BUFC and help plant many trees in the course of a day or an afternoon.

Tree Give-Aways

Through our new program, Free Tree Giveways, GBG will be giving away trees at various locations to those who wish to steward a tree in Boston. To receive a tree, participants should fill out the site evaluation form located in the Tree Selection Guide, available online to print or on site at the give-aways. By filling this out you not only receive a free tree but GBG can be sure that the right tree goes in the right place. Available tree species vary each year, however GBG will provide a selection of trees for a variety of site conditions. Tree give-aways are usually held on Saturdays - please check out the calendar to see a scheduled give-away near you!

Tree Captains

Residents of Boston can participate in GBG in the role of a neighborhood organizer. Tree Captains help get the word out about GBG by recruiting neighbors to receive and care for a tree in their own yards. Participants in the program receive training on tree selection and siting, tree planting and care and outreach strategies.

Resident Tree Workshops

GBG, through the members of Boston's Urban Forest Coalition (BUFC), created Resident Tree Workshops as a way to inform tree stewards in the city about the broader urban tree canopy and about planting a tree on their own property. Residents of Boston who attend one of these workshops will learn about the benefits of trees, the importance of selecting the right tree for the right place and the best way to plant and care for a tree in their yard. Workshop participants will each receive a free tree to take home and plant in their yards.